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Sammanfattning

This study aimed to examine the factors that contribute to men who use violence against their female partners seeking support from social services for the first time and initiating behavioral change. The study was based on a qualitative approach and consisted of semi-structured interviews with seven social workers in Sweden who work with men using violence in intimate relationships. The empirical material was analyzed through thematic analysis and interpreted using social constructionism, hegemonic masculinity, and stigma theory. The findings show that men rarely seek help on their own initiative; instead, the contact is often preceded by external pressure such as separation, fear of losing children, police involvement, or ultimatums from partners or authorities. Shame, stigma, and masculine norms were identified as significant barriers to help-seeking, while a respectful and non-judgmental professional approach was described as crucial in motivating men toward change. The study concludes that preventing men’s violence against women requires both protective interventions for victims and preventive, change-oriented interventions directed at perpetrators. The study concludes that men often have a short window of motivation for behavioural change, which highlights the importance of providing low-barrier support interventions by professionals.