Decisions to Stay or Leave an Abusive Relationship: A Case Study Research of Dating Violence in Salatiga, Indonesia

This research aims to explore dating violence phenomena that occur in young adults in Indonesia. A case study approach is used to investigate four participants‟ decision to stay or leave abusive relationships that they experience. Ethological perspective of attachment theory and transpersonal psychology are used as theoretical underpinnings for this research. Through in-depth interviews, it was found that two participants decided to stay in abusive relationships because of lack of attachment security with parents in the past and misperception of dating concept. Secondly, it was found that spiritual transformation of two other participants was key element that helped them to leave and move on. In conclusion, this research has two implications. Firstly, as prevention for dating violence in youth, children must have secure attachment and relation with their parents as their primary figure of attachments. Secondly, spirituality can play important role in helping individuals to move on from abusive relationships.