Strengthening Family Protection Through Polyvictimization Research

Lead  Prof. Edward CHAN

Department of Applied Social Sciences

Research led by Prof. Edward Chan and his team have transformed how society addresses family violence and child poverty. By pioneering the concept of Family Polyvictimization (FPV), PolyU researchers developed evidence-based screening tools that help professionals identify multiple forms of co-occurring family violence, recognize hidden victims earlier and respond more effectively.

Implemented in local refuge services and training programmes across Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, these tools have shifted practice from subjective judgment to systematic and whole-family protection, improving care for women and children experiencing family violence.

The FPV research also shows how poverty increases family vulnerability. Through evaluations of Hong Kong’s Child Development Fund, the team demonstrated the value of family-focused savings, mentorship, and personal development programmes. The findings informed policy improvements and prompted an additional HK$180 million in government investment, expanding support and improving life opportunities for children from low-income families.