The Implementation of Dating Violence Prevention Programmes in Portugal and Their Effectiveness: Perspectives of Professionals

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to learn the perspectives of professionals on the effectiveness of implementing dating violence prevention programmes in Portugal, based on their experiences. For data collection, a questionnaire survey built specifically for this purpose was used, which was completed by a total of 33 participants, 31 female and two male, with an average age of 39 years (SD = 10.10). The results indicate that the implementation of dating violence prevention programmes is generally perceived as effective, although a very limited number of participants mention the reduction of violence as a resultant gain. Limitations of a different nature are recognized, namely in terms of specificity, sustainability and the evaluation systems, which may compromise the consolidation of long-term objectives. Thus, the study presents important indications on how to redefine strategies to prevent and combat dating violence.