The dark number of Intimate Partner Violence, a survey on an italian sample

• In Event: Intimate partner violence

Abstract

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines intimate partner violence as physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, or psychological aggression (including coercive acts) by a current or former intimate partner, whether or not the partner is a spouse (U.S. C.D.C.P., 2017). Statistical and demographic studies collected worldwide confirmed that IPV is widespread in all countries (World Health Organization). On the other hand some studies (van Dijk, J.J.M. 2010) argue that police figures do indeed significantly underestimate the true volume of this crime cause of the “Dark number”. The Dark Number of crimes are the crimes that are committed but never reported to or detected by the police, and statistical report. In this study we administered an online questionnaire to an Italian sample (Male/Female/LGBTQ) investigating whether in their lifetime they have ever undergone I.P.V. and trying to estimate the dark number of this crime by selecting victims who filed reports and who did not. Our results compare the estimated dark number of I.P.V. among the male/female/LGBTQ victims sample, providing us with a cross-section of the phenomenon also with regard to gender identity. Finally, our data provide us with information into victims'opinions regarding the type of violence (physical, psychological or economic violence) experienced during their abusive relationship, the feeling about the impact on their life and their opinion regarding any psychological problems suffered due to the I.P.V. .

Author

• Fabio Delicato, Association Criminiseriali