Adverse childhood experiences, self-control, and teen dating violence perpetration

Teen dating violence (TDV) is a serious public health concern that can cause long-term problems in its victims. The present study used data collected in a study funded by the CDC to explore whether self-control operates as a mediator between adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and TDV perpetration. The survey was distributed to random samples of 6th and 9th graders from 14 public schools in Michigan (N = 1236). Preliminary correlation tests revealed a strong negative relationship between self-control and TDV perpetration as well as a positive relationship between ACE and TDV perpetration. Hayes\u27 (2012) PROCESS macro was used to establish mediation, and all components of self-control except for physical activity were found to partially mediate the effects of ACE on physical TDV perpetration