Relationship Dissolution and Psychologically Aggressive Dating Relationships: Preliminary Findings from a College-based relationship Education Course

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a relationship education program, delivered as part of a college course, among students (n= 152) that reported experiencing psychological aggression in their exclusive dating relationship. As compared to those in the control group, participants receiving relationship education were significantly more likely to end their romantic relationship, even after controlling for relationship satisfaction. Further, when relationship termination occurred, those in the intervention group were significantly more likely to attribute the breakup to their participation in the class as compared to those in the control group. Findings from this study are tentative, but warrant special consideration by policy-makers and educators as to the benefits that universal prevention education programs have on individuals in psychologically aggressive romantic relationships.