Female-perpetrated Intimate Partner Violence Against Men: Perceptions of Portuguese Police Officers

Police officers are the first responders to Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). While formal protocols exist, their responses are also influenced by extra-legal factors. The present study aimed to understand the perceptions of police officers regarding male victims of IPV in heterosexual relationships. The sample comprised 1655 Portuguese police officers. The study was conducted online, and participants answered a sociodemographic questionnaire and an inventory containing 20 statements about IPV. Most participants revealed well-adjusted perceptions about the reasons for aggression and male victims’ stereotypes, and the reasons to stay in the relationship. However, perceptions about reporting and separation inhibitors were ambiguous. No differences were found in perceptions regarding participants’ gender or age. Participants who intervened on a higher number of IPV cases, with or without male victims, revealed more well-adjusted perceptions, compared to other participants. The study’s findings provide more insight regarding police officers’ perceptions of male victims of IPV and emphasizes the need to promote specific training among these professionals, to ensure an adequate and positive intervention with these victims.