Correlates of delayed help-seeking among women experiencing intimate partner violence: A cross-sectional study in Hong Kong

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a major public health issue. Delays in accessing support may prolong exposure to violence and limit opportunities for intervention. This study examined demographic, health-related, child-related, and perpetrator-related correlates associated with delayed help-seeking among women experiencing IPV in Hong Kong. This cross-sectional study analyzed standardized intake and risk-assessment records from 681 women admitted to three crisis refuge centers in Hong Kong between 2020 and 2025. Participants had a mean age of 40.5 years. Variables included sociodemographic characteristics, maternal and child physical and mental health, IPV characteristics, assessed risk, children’s exposure to violence, and perpetrator characteristics. Delayed help-seeking was defined as an abuse duration exceeding five years before first shelter entry, while an abuse duration of five years or less was classified as regular help-seeking. Sequential multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine associations with delayed help-seeking. Of the 681 participants, 359 were classified in the regular help-seeking group and 322 in the delayed help-seeking group. In bivariate analyses, delayed help-seeking was associated with a higher lifetime prevalence of physical assault, injury, and sexual abuse. In the sequential multivariable logistic regression models, older maternal age, older child age, and a greater number of children were associated with higher odds of delayed help-seeking, whereas having a child with a chronic illness was associated with lower odds. Perpetrator histories of perpetrating IPV or child abuse and neglect, and manipulative behavior, were associated with higher odds of delayed help-seeking in crude analyses but lower odds after adjustment. While child and perpetrator characteristics were associated with the timing of first shelter entry, perpetrator manipulative behavior acts as a critical catalyst for accelerated help-seeking when they directly threaten child well-being. The findings suggest a need for accessible, survivor-centered services that address caregiving responsibilities and the health and safety needs of women and their children.