Tension and Conflict Factors in Second Marriages as Causes of Abuse Between Elderly Spouses

Data for the present research was derived from a pilot study on elder abuse by family members. The pilot study, conducted between 1996–98, is the first of its kind in Israel. From a population of 270 elders, who were identified by welfare and health professionals as victims of abuse by family members, 12 persons who had remarried after the death of a spouse were selected as subjects for an in-depth qualitative study. The research aimed at examining the reasons for abuse through the reports of the victims, comparing their experience to second marriages where spouse abuse was not detected. The findings showed that the decision to establish joint residence, financial arrangements (money management, wills and bequests), issues of power and control, and memories of the deceased spouse are the primary factors for abuse in these second marriages. These factors create situations of tension and conflict between married partners that lead to neglect in care giving, emotional and mental abuse, verbal and physical violence, and financial exploitation.