P017 - COVID-19, Domestic Violence, and Shelter-Based Help-Seeking in Portugal: Unveiling Socio-Ecological Dynamics

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Abstract

This study examines domestic violence experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic among 103 victims recruited from shelters in Portugal. The analysis explores the association between pandemic-related violence and socio-ecological factors (e.g., sex, race/ethnicity, physical and psychological health, children, social relationships, employment, and environment) along with motivations for seeking help in shelters during COVID-19. The participants, predominantly female, unemployed during the pandemic, and ethnically diverse, shared their experiences, including different forms of violence. Results indicate that participants experienced multiple victimization, including psychological violence, physical violence, control/stalking, economic violence, and sexual violence. Nearly half of the sample perceived an increase in violence due to the pandemic. Females, those aged 18-30, and participants from minority groups (e.g., Black, Romani, Indigenous, and Hispanic) reported more victimization during the pandemic. Sexual violence was exclusively reported by females. Control and stalking behaviors had the highest frequencies reported by participants aged 18-30 years. When facing physical violence, having children present was a risk factor, and having better social relations was a protective factor. Compared to other relationships, participants in intimate relationships reported more control/stalking, with sexual violence exclusively reported in these relationships. Motivations for seeking shelter were an escalation of violence, seeking a better quality of life and well-being (e.g., due to financial dependence or mental health struggles), and reasons related to children (e.g., due to violent incidents affecting children). During the COVID-19-related state of alert in Portugal, 46 participants sought shelters. Older age and experiencing control and stalking in abusive relationships emerged as risk factors for help-seeking during the state of alert. Better psychological health and social relations were protective factors. The research highlights the importance of understanding and responding to the multifaceted impact of the pandemic on domestic violence in Portugal.

Authors

• Ana Cunha, School of Psychology, University of Minho

• Mariana Gonçalves, University of Minho

• Marlene Matos, Psychology Research Centre, School of Psychology, University of Minho

• Marlene Matos, Psychology Research Centre, School of Psychology, University of Minho