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Prevalence and Correlates of the Family Polyvictimization: An Updated Meta-Analysis.
1The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong.
Trauma, Violence & Abuse
|November 4, 2025
Summary
Family polyvictimization, experiencing multiple forms of abuse, affects 23.1% of individuals. Rates are higher in clinical settings and in Africa and South America, highlighting the need for broader family inclusion in studies.
Area of Science:
- Criminology
- Public Health
- Psychology
Background:
- Family polyvictimization, defined as experiencing multiple forms of victimization within a family context, presents a significant public health concern.
- Previous research has established the prevalence and correlates of polyvictimization, but updated estimates are needed.
- Recent literature indicates potential regional and demographic variations in polyvictimization rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide updated prevalence estimates of family polyvictimization by synthesizing recent literature.
- To examine the effect sizes of how one type of family victimization impacts other types.
- To investigate correlates of family polyvictimization.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted for publications from May 2018 onward.
- A meta-analysis was performed on 49 new studies (51 estimates) and combined with a previous meta-analysis (89 estimates total).
- Effect sizes and associations among different types of family victimization and their correlates were synthesized.
Main Results:
- The updated meta-analysis revealed an overall event rate of family polyvictimization of 23.1%.
- Higher rates of polyvictimization were observed in studies from Africa and South America, as well as in clinical samples compared to the general population.
- Findings indicated a significant co-occurrence of different victimization types, particularly child polyvictimization and intimate partner violence with child abuse.
Conclusions:
- Family polyvictimization remains a prevalent issue, with updated estimates indicating a substantial event rate.
- Identifying one victim within a family increases the likelihood of identifying others, especially in clinical settings.
- The study suggests expanding family violence research to include extended family members to better understand and address polyvictimization.
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