Police Response to Domestic and Family Violence Incidents Where the Victim Is Willing to Maintain the Relationship with the Perpetrator

As domestic and family violence (DFV) grows as a public health concern, effective police responses are critical. Using a mixed-methods approach, we explored the challenges officers face when victims are reluctant to sever ties with perpetrators. Quantitative findings showed officers generally took proactive measures to protect victims, while qualitative data revealed many adopted a victim-centered approach. However, some officers demonstrated limited understanding of the complexities behind victims' decisions to stay. These findings highlight the need for enhanced training to better equip officers with the knowledge to navigate the multifaceted dynamics of DFV cases.