Riskisuhteessa

Riskisuhteessa is a Finnish term describing a romantic or intimate relationship in which there is an elevated risk of harm or negative outcomes for one or both partners. It is used in social work, psychology and public health as a descriptive concept rather than a formal diagnosis, signaling the need for assessment and support.

Common features include coercive control, physical or emotional abuse, manipulation, severe power imbalances, secrecy, and dependence. Additional risk factors are substance misuse, financial instability, stalking, and controlling behavior over a partner’s contacts and activities. The consequences can include physical injury, mental health problems, trauma, sexually transmitted infections, and unintended pregnancies.

Assessment and response involve risk screening by professionals, safety planning, and referrals to counseling, shelters, or legal protections. Proactive steps in communities and schools aim to promote healthy relationship skills, teach warning signs, and encourage help-seeking.

In research and policy, riskisuhteessa is discussed in relation to intimate partner violence, dating violence, and unhealthy relationship dynamics, with emphasis on prevention, early detection, and access to support for those at risk.