The complex link between forgiveness, PTSD symptoms and well-being in female victims of intimate partner stalking

This study examined the relationship between PTSD symptoms and poor general health reported by female victims of intimate partner stalking (IPS) and victims ’ forgiveness or lack of forgiveness toward their perpetrators, controlling for escalation of stalking, age of victims, and dispositional forgiveness. Design/methodology/approach A total of 120 female Italian victims of intimate partner stalking, who had obtained an administrative protective ord er (PO) issued by police in stalking cases (Ammonimento), took part in a retrospective study that examined the relationship between the presence or absence of victims’ forgiveness of perpetrators and victims’ PTSD symptoms and general well-being. Interviews took place after one, two or three yea rs following the PO. Findings All participants reported some level of direct or indirect stalking, and up to 98% had suffered both. In half of all cases, a PO had been breached within a year of its issuance. Positive forgiveness was not associated with lower PTSD symptoms and was marginally assoc iated with well-being. Negative forgiveness (e.g. holding a grudge, desiring revenge) was associated with greater PTSD symptoms; holding a grudge was significantly associated with poorer general health. Research limitations/implications Victims of intimate partner stalking experience a state of fe ar and anxiety due to the constant risk of being attacked, followed and controlled. Compared to studies about the protective role of forgivenes...
Source: Journal of Aggression, Conflict and Peace Research - Category: Criminology Source Type: research