Ambivalent Sexism, Objectification and Justification of Intimate Partner Violence in a Patriarchal, Collectivist Society

J Interpers Violence. 2026 Mar 31:8862605261435915. doi: 10.1177/08862605261435915. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Despite global efforts, violence against women persists in patriarchal, collectivist societies. This cross-sectional study (N = 239 Pakistani young adults; 139 women, 100 men) examined associations between objectification of others (adapted for moral, reproductive, and honor-based roles), ambivalent sexism, and intimate partner violence (IPV) justification. Greater objectification and sexism were associated with higher IPV myth acceptance. Ambivalent sexism fully mediated the association in men and partially mediated it in women. Men scored higher on sexism (d = 0.30) and objectification (d = 0.59); the gender difference in IPV justification was marginal (p = .051). Objectification accounted for 4% of the sexism variance in women. In Pakistan’s izzat (honor)- and ghairat (male pride)-driven context, these findings highlight how honor-based objectification and benevolent sexism normalize violence. The results suggest that within cultural contexts emphasizing male authority, addressing sexist attitudes and objectification is crucial for IPV prevention. This study addresses a critical gap in Global South research, urging culturally tailored interventions beyond legal reform. Longitudinal research is needed to clarify causal pathways.

PMID:41913694 | DOI:10.1177/08862605261435915