2018 | Daniela Morais-Gonçalves, Sara Lopes-Borges, Helena Gaspar
The study examines the factors that contribute to recidivism among victims of domestic violence, focusing on risk factors and risk assessment. Recidivism is defined as the number of times a victim seeks specialized support services after experiencing one or more episodes of domestic violence. Risk factors are indicators associated with psychological and psychosocial characteristics of both the perpetrator and the victim, which increase the likelihood of recidivism. Risk assessment involves collecting indicators about the parties involved in the cycle of violence and implementing measures to prevent recurrence and minimize its intensity.
The study used a Risk Monitoring Grid for Cases of Recidivism of Victims of Domestic Violence, consisting of 44 items that identify risk factors promoting recurrence and preventing victims from ending the cycle of violence. Data from social service reports of the Functional Unit of Forensic Clinic of the Clinic and Forensic Pathology Service at the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences were analyzed, revealing 43 female victims (88.4%) who returned to the clinic between 2012 and 2017.
The study found that victims often return to their abusers due to factors such as mutual dependence, excessive emotional attachment, repeated violence reducing the victim's motivation to react, and the victim's passive and submissive role. The presence of children in the relationship also plays a significant role, with many victims staying to protect their children from the violence. The study emphasizes the importance of dynamic and continuous risk assessment and monitoring to prevent violence and its recurrence.
The results highlight the need for a comprehensive understanding of risk factors, including the abuser's criminal history, demographic variables, family background, social factors, situational factors, and psychological factors. The study also notes that alcohol abuse and mental health issues are common among abusers, which can lead to increased aggression and violence.
In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of detailed analysis of risk factors such as increased frequency and intensity of violence, the need for psychosocial support, alcohol or drug abuse, threats of death, constant control, continuous deprivation of freedom, and the use of dangerous instruments or weapons. These factors are crucial for preventing recidivism and protecting victims.The study examines the factors that contribute to recidivism among victims of domestic violence, focusing on risk factors and risk assessment. Recidivism is defined as the number of times a victim seeks specialized support services after experiencing one or more episodes of domestic violence. Risk factors are indicators associated with psychological and psychosocial characteristics of both the perpetrator and the victim, which increase the likelihood of recidivism. Risk assessment involves collecting indicators about the parties involved in the cycle of violence and implementing measures to prevent recurrence and minimize its intensity.
The study used a Risk Monitoring Grid for Cases of Recidivism of Victims of Domestic Violence, consisting of 44 items that identify risk factors promoting recurrence and preventing victims from ending the cycle of violence. Data from social service reports of the Functional Unit of Forensic Clinic of the Clinic and Forensic Pathology Service at the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences were analyzed, revealing 43 female victims (88.4%) who returned to the clinic between 2012 and 2017.
The study found that victims often return to their abusers due to factors such as mutual dependence, excessive emotional attachment, repeated violence reducing the victim's motivation to react, and the victim's passive and submissive role. The presence of children in the relationship also plays a significant role, with many victims staying to protect their children from the violence. The study emphasizes the importance of dynamic and continuous risk assessment and monitoring to prevent violence and its recurrence.
The results highlight the need for a comprehensive understanding of risk factors, including the abuser's criminal history, demographic variables, family background, social factors, situational factors, and psychological factors. The study also notes that alcohol abuse and mental health issues are common among abusers, which can lead to increased aggression and violence.
In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of detailed analysis of risk factors such as increased frequency and intensity of violence, the need for psychosocial support, alcohol or drug abuse, threats of death, constant control, continuous deprivation of freedom, and the use of dangerous instruments or weapons. These factors are crucial for preventing recidivism and protecting victims.