Interdisciplinary Approaches to Interpersonal Violence: Psychopathology, Treatment, and Prevention

Interpersonal violence encompasses acts of physical, sexual, or psychological harm inflicted by one individual upon another and remains a pervasive public health and human rights issue worldwide. It significantly contributes to mortality among adolescents and young adults and has long-term repercussions on victims’ emotional, behavioral, and physical health. The psychopathology of offenders often reveals complex personality disorders, including psychopathy, which predispose individuals to chronic and severe violent behaviors. Research indicates that psychopathic offenders are five times more likely to re-offend than non-psychopathic individuals.

Addressing this multifaceted issue necessitates comprehensive treatment approaches, such as forensic psychotherapy. Simultaneously, support for victims is crucial. The interplay between interpersonal violence, offender psychopathology, and victim support underscores the need for integrated treatment and support systems to effectively address and mitigate the impact of such violence.

This Research Topic aims to explore the intricate connections between interpersonal violence, offender psychopathology, and intervention strategies. Continued research and the development of integrated treatment models are vital steps toward mitigating the profound impact of interpersonal violence on society.

Contributors are encouraged to address the following topics:
• understanding the various forms and prevalence of interpersonal violence, exploring socio-cultural determinants and global trends
• investigating the psychopathology of offenders, focusing on mental health profiles, personality disorders, and recidivism patterns
• assessing the neurological, developmental, and psychological impact of interpersonal violence on victims across their lifespan
• evaluating interventions for offenders, including forensic psychotherapy and community-based rehabilitation
• examining the effectiveness of victim support systems and services, and the role of legal reforms in protecting victims
• presenting integrated approaches for treatment and prevention involving healthcare, law enforcement, and community collaborations
• reporting on recent advances and potential future directions, such as technology-driven prevention tools and intervention programs.

This topic encourages a multidisciplinary approach, combining insights from psychology, criminology, public health, law, and social work to develop a holistic understanding and effective strategies for addressing interpersonal violence.

Keywords: Interpersonal Violence (IPV), Psychopathology, Victim Support Systems, Forensic Psychotherapy, Recidivism Reduction

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.