Indicators of Violence Levels: Questionnaires and Predictive Mathematical Model

Abstract

In this paper, we present, in detail, how a mathematical model that simulates the probable scenarios of intimate partner violence is linked to the application of any questionnaire of domestic violence already in use. This questionnaire assigns a weight of severity to each proposed inquiry for the types of psychological, physical, and sexual violence. We show a numerical procedure that must be performed to obtain the probable scenarios of violence in which the victim is involved, taking as key factor the loss of control of the perpetrator. With the numerical data obtained from the application of the mathematical model, the probable levels of violence that the victim could experience month to month for two cycles of violence are plotted, as well as the behaviors of the probable states of loss of control that the perpetrator would have during the next twelve months. Based on the results obtained, we generated a help table of indicators that could be used by victim assistance centers and/or health experts for decision-making schemes.