Risk and protective factors for revictimization from intimate partner violence: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant global public health issue disproportionately affecting women.
• IPV is linked to adverse physical and mental health outcomes, including revictimization.
• Understanding factors influencing revictimization is crucial for intervention and prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and identify risk and protective factors associated with revictimization in female victims of intimate partner violence.
• To synthesize current research on the multifaceted nature of revictimization in the context of IPV.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases for studies published between 1995 and 2024.
• An initial pool of 925 studies was screened, with 38 deemed eligible for full review, ultimately including 12 studies in the final analysis.

Main Results:

• Identified risk factors for revictimization include mental health problems, specific demographic characteristics, prior experiences of violence, and certain coping and attachment styles.
• Protective factors identified encompass economic independence, empowerment, and the presence of restraining orders.
• These factors highlight the complex interplay of individual, social, and systemic elements contributing to revictimization.

Conclusions:

• Findings provide critical insights for developing targeted interventions and support systems for survivors of intimate partner violence.
• Implications for public health policy and practice are discussed, emphasizing the need to address identified risk and protective factors.
• Recommendations are proposed for future research to further elucidate the mechanisms and dynamics of revictimization.