Legitimizing Coercive Control in Teen Dating Relationships: Psychosocial Risk Factors in the Adolescent Population

Abstract

Introduction: Adolescent dating relationships represent a critical developmental context in which beliefs about intimacy, gender roles, and power are formed and consolidated. Within this stage, coercive control often emerges in subtle and normalized forms, contributing to the persistence of gender-based violence. The present research examines the psychosocial risk factors underlying the perception of coercive control in teen dating relationships. Methods: Participants were 357 adolescents aged between 15 and 19 years (Mage = 17.83, SDage = 0.94), recruited from educational institutions during the academic year 2024/2025. A structural equation model was tested to explore the relationships among gender-related beliefs, psychological functioning, and attitudes toward intimate partner behaviors. Results: Findings revealed a complex network of associations. The perceived precariousness of masculinity was positively associated with sexism, which predicted, in turn, stronger endorsement of rape myths and romantic love myths. These belief systems were directly related to increased legitimization of coercive control in dating relationships: in particular, adolescents who endorsed rape myths and romantic love myths were more likely to perceive controlling behaviors as acceptable or even normative. Both sexism and the perceived precariousness of masculinity showed indirect effects on this normalization process. Emotional dysregulation also emerged as a significant factor. Conclusion: These results highlight the critical role of sociocultural and individual psychological factors in shaping adolescents’ attitudes toward abuse in dating contexts, particularly in relation to traditional gender norms and the romanticization of intimate relationships. Policy Implications: With regard to primary prevention efforts, interventions should address sexist ideologies and unhealthy beliefs about romantic relationships, while also promoting emotion regulation skills. Specifically challenging masculine gender norms and fostering egalitarian relationship models within secondary schools may be particularly effective in reducing tolerance for coercive control and preventing teen dating violence.