Network Analysis of Victimization and Perpetration of Dating Violence Among Ecuadorian Youth

Introduction: Dating violence is a growing problem among young people in Ecuador, manifesting in various forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Objective: To examine the relationships between victimization and perpetration of dating violence among young Ecuadorians using network analysis. Methodology: A non-experimental, descriptive, and correlational research design was employed, utilizing network analysis. The sample consisted of 836 young Ecuadorians, with 52% identifying as women and 48% as men, aged 14-21 years (58%) and 22-26 years (42%). Results: The results show that violence, particularly physical and sexual, acts as a central mediator in the network of dating violence. Variables related to victimization, such as detachment and fear, are highly interconnected. Additionally, contextual and demographic factors significantly influence the configuration of these networks. The dynamics vary by gender and evolve as individuals transition from adolescence to early adulthood. Conclusion: The analysis reveals that dating violence is not just a direct interaction between victim and aggressor, but also a phenomenon influenced by social and family contexts. Interventions must address both direct violence and contextual factors, focusing on family support, emotional health, and socioeconomic conditions.