Gender-based violence against women represents one of the most serious forms of human rights violations (EIGE, 2024), with devastating physical, psychological, and social consequences (García-Moreno et al., 2013). The extent of this phenomenon within family and intimate relationships emerges clearly (Istat, 2020). The aim of this study is to analyze the factors and dynamics associated with the perpetration of gender-based violence, examining stories of violence against women. The analysis included 100 case histories, completed by properly trained operators, for women aged between 19 and 78 who sought help at a Neapolitan anti-violence center from 2022 to 2024. This center aids both Italian and foreign national women. The thematic analysis was conducted following the model proposed by Braun and Clarke (2006). The results highlight the need for a multidimensional approach to tackle the issue of gender-based violence effectively. The consequences for women who have experienced violence are underscored. The importance of the link between precarious socio-economic conditions and violent behaviour emerged as central to consider. The role of the intergenerational transmission of violence is emphasized, as 50% of the women reported that the perpetrators of the violence had been victims of witnessed violence during childhood. The criminal records of the perpetrators were present in 32% of the case history, linked to forms of violence such as stalking and economic violence. The latter is particularly prevalent. This data requires further specific investigation, as it significantly deviates from the national data generally reported. Additionally, differences in violent dynamics between women who are mothers and those who are not are considered, along with the role children play in prompting women to seek help. Finally, services, institutions, and social networks that can be protective factors or represent risks in combating the phenomenon are analyzed. Implications and possible interventions are discussed.