Exploring the impact of violence exposure on adolescents’ attitudes toward intimate partner- and general violence

Research has consistently shown that attitudes favorable to violence increase the likelihood of violent perpetration, including intimate partner violence (IPV). Exposure to violence is a key factor shaping such attitudes. This study examines Swedish youths’ attitudes toward general violence and IPV in parallel, and whether exposure to violence is associated with these attitudes in similar ways. The study draws on longitudinal data from the Malmö Individual and Neighbourhood Development Study, collected through questionnaires between late 2011 and 2015. The sample consists of 387 adolescents. Attitudes toward general violence and IPV as well as exposure to violence were measured using self-reported questionnaire items. Logistic regressions were used to assess associations between exposure to violence and attitudes toward violence and IPV. Swedish youth generally disapprove of violence, although gender differences are evident for attitudes toward general violence. Exposure to violence was statistically significantly associated with attitudes favorable to general violence, particularly when exposure was recent or repeated. In contrast, exposure showed limited associations with attitudes toward IPV. The findings suggest that different mechanisms may shape attitudes toward general violence and IPV, highlighting the need for further research on the formation of IPV-related attitudes.