The impact of COVID-19 measures: A research on the influence of COVID-19 measures on situational factors of domestic violence

Abstract

Introduction: COVID-19 measures to prevent spreading had a negative impact on daily life. Awareness was raised that these measures could increase risks of DV. Social support structure disappeared and decreasing their positive effects. Although a worldwide increase in DV was observed, Dutch government denied this. This research wants to confirm the growth in DV cases during the pandemic and look into situational factors leading to DV. Methods: Two datasets were used to. Data from CBS answered the first two hypotheses, reflects those reporting DV or requesting advice, divided by role and function. Information per provinces was analysed for the years 2019, 2020 and 2021. A repeated measure ANOVA was performed to see if changes during the years were significant. Data from Eurofound answered the last two hypotheses, reflecting the impact of the pandemic on working and living in Europe. Data was collected during the first lockdown, right after and a year later. Outcome per question was compared over time, the difference between these outcomes was converted in percentages. Results: Result shows that during the pandemic the request for advice increased while the amount of reports declined. The role of non-professionals became more important role during the pandemic. These results were significant. Professionals still play a key-role in identifying DV but their role did not increase significantly. During the pandemic (the experience of) financial insecurity did not increase but people still struggled to make ends meet. Throughout the pandemic, an increase in psychological problems was noticed. Conclusion: Results showed that the measures negatively influence the situational factors of domestic violence. Future research should take a more direct approach and research if new factors were created. Increased knowledge on situational factors could serve as a guide for future policy. Perpetrators cannot be identify easily but triggering situations can be identified.