Psychological drivers of relationship violence

Psychologist Amaury Ramírez has identified several psychological factors that increase the risk of violence within partner relationships, including pathological jealousy, emotional dependency, a lack of self-control, and difficulty managing frustration. During a discussion on the program ‘Esto No Tiene Nombre’, Ramírez warned that certain behaviors, such as constant surveillance of a partner’s phone or contacts, are often socially normalized but serve as critical warning signs of potential aggression.

Ramírez argued for a more comprehensive approach to addressing violence, suggesting that current public policies may suffer from a ‘gender myopia’ by focusing exclusively on machismo and patriarchy. He stated that violence is a ‘multifactorial, multidimensional’ phenomenon that should not be analyzed solely through the lens of male aggression toward women, noting that men can also be victims and that pathological jealousy can affect any gender.

In addition to psychological triggers, the specialist highlighted substance abuse, specifically alcohol and drugs, as significant risk factors that must be integrated into violence prevention strategies.