Studies of intimate partner violence risk factors
The triangles show the relative importance of different risk factors for intimate partner violence. They are based on a measure of association (median odds ratios) between intimate partner violence and the risk factor in question across the relevant studies. Estimates based on a larger number of studies are likely to be more reliable. Not all risk factors are found in all social and cultural contexts.
Individual (victim)
Refugee or asylum seeking
Non-traditional gender role norms
Gambling
Ethnic minority
Other
5.8x
4.2x
3.4x
3.2x
Individual (perpetrator)
Ethnic minority
Gambling
Unplanned or unwanted pregnancy
Anger/hostility
Other
4.1x
3.0x
2.8x
2.7x
Relationship
Marital dissatisfaction
Reproductive coercion
Adherence to traditional gender role norms
Dominance and control by one partner
Other
3.0x
3.0x
2.3x
2.3x
Community
High rates of crime
Delinquent peers
Social norms supportive of violence
High rates of violence
Other
5.6x
2.9x
2.8x
2.5x
Societal
Exposure to war or political violence
Social norms supportive of violence
Other
2.1x
1.5x
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Height: Median odds ratio