Psychological and Socio-Cultural Predictors of Intimate Partner Violence Perpetration Among Albanian Men: A Comparative Study of Perpetrators and University Students

Abstract

Understanding the factors associated with intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration is essential for developing effective prevention strategies and evidence-informed intervention programmes. Although substantial research has examined the consequences of IPV for victims, comparatively less attention has been devoted to identifying the psychological and socio-cultural characteristics associated with violent behaviour among men, particularly within transitional societies such as Albania. This study investigates the psychological and socio-cultural predictors of intimate partner violence perpetration among Albanian men through a comparative analysis of perpetrators and university students. A quantitative, descriptive-comparative research design was employed using the Gender-Equitable Men (GEM) Scale to assess attitudes, beliefs, and gender-related norms associated with violent behaviour. The study included a total sample of 100 male participants, comprising 50 perpetrators enrolled in rehabilitation programmes and 50 male university students. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, independent-samples t-tests, Pearson correlation analysis, and one-way ANOVA. The findings indicate that psychological factors represent the strongest predictors associated with IPV perpetration, while socio-cultural factors, particularly inequitable gender norms and traditional beliefs regarding male authority, also contribute significantly to violent behaviour. Perpetrators demonstrated significantly more traditional gender attitudes than university students across several dimensions measured by the GEM Scale. Educational attainment was associated with more equitable gender attitudes and appeared to reduce the influence of psychological and socio-cultural risk factors related to violence. These findings contribute to the limited empirical literature on perpetrator characteristics in Albania and highlight the importance of integrating psychological assessment with gender-transformative approaches in perpetrator intervention programmes. The study offers practical implications for psychologists, social workers, justice institutions, and policymakers seeking to strengthen evidence-based strategies for the prevention of intimate partner violence.