Academic research on the role of psychiatrist in domestic violence victim protection (comparative study)

Dear Finnish Psychiatric Association,

My name is Antonio Simonetti, and I am a Master’s student in Law at LUISS Guido Carli University in Rome. I am currently working on my final thesis in Criminal Procedure Law, under the supervision of Professor Alberto Macchia, Counselor at the Italian Supreme Court.

My thesis, entitled: “The procedural protection of victims of domestic violence: an interdisciplinary and
comparative study between law, psychology and psychiatry in the Italian, French and Finnish legal systems,” explores how justice systems address the needs of victims of domestic violence, not only through legal mechanisms but also through psychological support and interprofessional cooperation. In particular, it aims to understand the role psychiatrist play in victim protection, trauma assessment, and interdisciplinary communication with legal actors.

To develop the empirical part of this study, I have created an anonymous and scientifically structured questionnaire specifically designed for mental health professionals, including psychiatrist who have dealt with domestic violence cases — either in clinical, forensic, or consultative settings.

The questionnaire can be accessed here: 
https://forms.gle/LEENbcvAQFqNUhXX7

Participation takes about 10–15 minutes, and responses are collected anonymously and used exclusively for academic purposes, in full respect of professional and ethical standards.

With this message, I kindly ask whether the Finnish Psychiatric Association might consider supporting this academic research by sharing the questionnaire with its members, whether through an internal newsletter, mailing list, or any other communication channel you may find appropriate.

Your support would be invaluable in ensuring that Finnish professionals are represented in a study that seeks to compare not only systems, but also lived professional experiences and critical practices in the field of victim protection. 

I remain at your complete disposal for any further information, and would be glad to provide a summary of the research, the questionnaire in PDF format, or the final thesis upon completion.

 With sincere appreciation and respect,