Is adolescent sibling violence a precursor to college dating violence?

OBJECTIVE To determine whether experiencing sibling violence in adolescence is a significant predictor for later dating violence. The influence of parent-to-child and parent-to-parent violence is also explored. METHODS A modified version of the CTS2 was administered to community college students. The survey instrument used the CTS2 psychological and physical assault subscales. RESULTS Adolescent sibling violence was a predictor for college dating violence. Males reported experiencing more sibling violence than females did, but females reported experiencing more dating violence, both as perpetrators and victims. CONCLUSION Further research is needed to improve understanding of the reasons for and the long-term consequences of sibling violence.