Predisposing factors of victimization in domestic violence

  • Gábor Héra ELTE KRTK Regionális Kutatások Intézete https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3817-1342
  • Zoltán Mészáros Magyar Ökumenikus Segélyszervezet
  • Beáta Magda Nagy ELTE Pedagógiai és Pszichológiai Kar Pedagógiai és Pszichológiai Intézet
Keywords: domestic violence, predictors, family of origin, mental health, IMPROVE

Abstract

The authors explore the deviations and social dysfunctions within the family of origin that contribute to victimization in cases of domestic violence. Following a review of relevant international literature and Hungarian research programs, they present the findings of their own empirical social science study. First, the authors analyze data from a nationally representative survey conducted in Hungary in 2015 (n = 1007) and 2022 (n = 1130). Second, they present findings from qualitative, semi-structured interviews conducted in 2019 and 2024 with a total of 105 victims. The study also includes insights from 15 expert interviews conducted within the framework of the IMPROVE research program. Researchers emphasise that the number of victims of intimate partner violence, and thus the number of related crimes, can be reduced through increased prevention efforts — precisely in an area where the police have very limited means of intervention. Effective prevention requires targeted training for professionals, with an emphasis on understanding predisposing risk factors. The article highlights the importance of multi-agency collaboration between police and other care systems and service providers as a central component of prevention strategies.

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Published
2025-12-19
How to Cite
HéraG., MészárosZ., & NagyB. M. (2025). Predisposing factors of victimization in domestic violence. Hungarian Review of Sociology, 35(4), 130-149. https://doi.org/10.51624/SzocSzemle.19179