The origins of intimate partner violence: Witnessing domestic violence as a common risk factor among victims and offenders of gender-based violence

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) encompasses various forms of physical, sexual, economic, and psychological abuse perpetrated by one partner within an intimate relationship, with the aim of exerting full control over the victim. In recent years, this phenomenon has gained increasing attention due to its profound impact on the psychological and physical well-being of women, thereby imposing significant burdens on both social and healthcare systems. IPV is thus a form of abuse that occurs within the domestic environment and is influenced by a combination of socio-cultural factors (e.g., gender norms), individual factors (e.g., personality disorders), and socio-environmental factors (e.g., childhood trauma, intimate partner conflict). These factors are often regarded as indicators associated with the perpetuation of the cycle of domestic violence. However, only half of the victims of domestic violence are able to report the abuse and break free from the cycle of social isolation, emotional trauma, and economic dependence on the perpetrator. Hence, it is crucial to identify risk factors associated with early adverse life events to prevent the perpetuation of domestic violence cycles. In existing literature, it is noted that patterns of inadequate parental care and exposure to domestic violence during childhood are common risk factors shared by both victims and perpetrators. Specifically, these experiences heighten the likelihood of developing a disorganized attachment style, which in adulthood, is linked to the formation of dysfunctional emotional relationships. However, as of now, there is a lack of studies exploring the mechanisms that determine whether an individual becomes a victim or perpetrator of IPV based on these shared risk factors.