Dating Violence (DV) among youth is a growing global concern, yet it remains under-researched in India. This systematic literature review aims to address three key questions:
Q1. What are the mental health impacts of DV on Indian youth compared to Western youth?
Q2. How do socio-cultural elements like patriarchal norms, family honour, and societal expectations influence DV in India?
Q3. What research gaps exist in the current literature on DV among Indian youth?
Following PRISMA methodology, a comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and a random Google search for studies published between January 2014 and December 2024. Out of 1,186 identified studies, only 20 met the inclusion criteria. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42025642260A), and study quality was evaluated with risk-of-bias using 'Robvis' software.
Western literature consistently links DV with mental health issues such as depression and low self-esteem. Risk factors include exposure to domestic violence, childhood abuse, poor family dynamics, peer pressure, and gender-inequitable attitudes. Girls are particularly vulnerable, while adolescents from more supportive families face less violence. Validated tools to assess DV and relationship quality are primarily developed for Western populations. The Incremental Theory of Personality offers an intervention to reduce hostile behavior, though it does not directly lower victimization.
Indian studies show that DV can be both one-sided and mutual, with emotional and social abuse being most common. Many participants misunderstood less visible forms like economic or cultural abuse, often normalizing violence due to gender norms, peer pressure, and media. These findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive interventions and individual skill development.
This review highlights major gaps in Indian DV research, particularly regarding mental health impacts and cultural influences. It calls for more empirical studies, increased awareness, and support systems, supporting SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality).