Early Identification of Multiple Victims in a Family: Family-Based Computation of Prevalence

Abstract

Traditional calculations of family victimization prevalence are problem-based, focusing on specific types of victimization experienced by individuals. The concept of Family Polyvictimization (FPV) recognizes the experience of multiple forms of victimization within a family, moving beyond individual problem-based measures to a family-based approach. This study aims to emphasize the importance of identifying additional victims within a family once the first victim is recognized, and it highlights the advantages of using a family-based approach to calculate FPV. A territory-wide household survey was conducted in Hong Kong (August 2022-March 2023) using a two-stage stratified sampling design. A total of 1,400 families completed the survey. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the effects of family characteristics on FPV. By adopting a family-based calculation, the study identifies broader patterns of victimization, with rates of 22.2% for adults, 17.7% for children, and 7.9% for the elderly, regardless of the perpetrator. In addition, 19.2% of families reported 1-2 victims, while 9.6% reported polyvictims within the same family. In families with victims experiencing lifetime prevalence, there is a 60% chance of identifying two or more victims. Families with polyvictims demonstrated greater approval of violence, stronger male dominance, and intergenerational patterns of abuse. Our family-based analysis offers insights into conditions driving multiple forms of violence within families, emphasizing the need for family-based interventions and policies addressing broader dynamics rather than focusing solely on individual victims. This perspective captures the interconnectedness of victimization and provides a more comprehensive view of family polyvictimization.