1
|
Bolarinwa OA, Odimegwu C, Tapera T. Improving the sexual health of women with disabilities in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review of published studies. Reprod Health 2024; 21:116. [PMID: 39107772 PMCID: PMC11304614 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-024-01859-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An essential aspect of human well-being is positive sexual health outcomes. However, the issue of adverse sexual health outcomes continues to be a major public health concern, particularly for women with disabilities in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Therefore, this current scoping review mapped studies conducted in the last twenty-nine years on the sexual health of women with disabilities from these five dimensions: sexual activity, contraceptive use, sexual autonomy, sexual violence and risky sexual behaviour, whilst seeking to identify the current state of knowledge and address the study gaps in SSA. METHODS This current scoping review was informed by the methodological framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley. Exploratory searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, African Journals Online, etc., to identify studies conducted in SSA that focus on sexual activity, contraceptive use, sexual autonomy, sexual violence and risky sexual behaviour among women with disabilities in SSA since the inception of the International Conference on Population and Development in 1994 to 30th of March 2024. This process resulted in the inclusion of seventeen (17) studies. RESULTS Of the 1362 identified through various databases, 34 studies were included for the full-text retrieval and screening; only 17 studies met the inclusion criteria. The eligible studies were conducted across six countries in SSA and published between 2008 and 2023. Eight studies used quantitative study type, six utilised qualitative approach, and three employed mixed-methods analysis. Two studies were conducted on sexual activity, ten were conducted on contraceptive use, four were conducted on sexual violence, and one study was conducted on risky sexual behaviour, whilst no study on sexual autonomy met the inclusion criteria. CONCLUSION This review showed that there were few or scarce studies on sexual activity, contraceptive use, sexual autonomy, sexual violence and risky sexual behaviour among women with disabilities in SSA and even where the studies were substantial (contraceptive use), the majority of the studies were conducted in a country. Future studies should consider examining dimensions of sexual health, such as sexual autonomy, sexual activity and risky sexual behaviour of women with disabilities that were not available or were scarce in the literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Obasanjo Afolabi Bolarinwa
- Demography and Population Studies Programme, Schools of Public Health and Social Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Department of Public Health, York St John University, London, UK.
| | - Clifford Odimegwu
- Demography and Population Studies Programme, Schools of Public Health and Social Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Talent Tapera
- Demography and Population Studies Programme, Schools of Public Health and Social Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
García-Cuéllar MM, Pastor-Moreno G, Ruiz-Pérez I, Henares-Montiel J. The prevalence of intimate partner violence against women with disabilities: a systematic review of the literature. Disabil Rehabil 2023; 45:1-8. [PMID: 35038281 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2022.2025927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although systematic reviews have already been conducted on violence and disability, the evidence is not conclusive in Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). This study examined the prevalence of IPV in women with disabilities, taking account of the different types of violence and disability. METHODS We performed a search in five databases. We included observational studies that analysed the frequency of IPV in women with disabilities compared to women without. Two independent reviewers selected and assessed studies. We made a qualitative synthesis according to the type of IPV analysed in relation to disability. RESULTS We identified 26 articles. The frequency and risk of IPV were greater in women with disabilities than in those without. All of the articles that studied financial violence, 81.3% of those that studied physical violence, 78.5% of those that studied psychological violence, 75% of those that studied physical/sexual violence, 73.3% of those that studied sexual violence and 50% of those that studied any type of violence found a significant association whit disability. CONCLUSIONS Women with disabilities are at higher risk of IPV. Rehabilitation centers and its professionals must have a leading role in the identification of these situations and this should be considered in IPV prevention plans.Implications for rehabilitationPeople with disabilities are at higher risk of multiple types of violence.Violence against women with disabilities therefore involves two public health issues interacting simultaneously.Rehabilitation centers and its professionals should have a leading role in the identification of IPV in women with disabilities.IPV prevention plans should consider rehabilitation centers and its professionals as a main component of interventions in women with disabilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Guadalupe Pastor-Moreno
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública, Granada, Spain.,Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica y en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (ibs. GRANADA), Granada, Spain
| | - Isabel Ruiz-Pérez
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública, Granada, Spain.,Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica y en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (ibs. GRANADA), Granada, Spain
| | - Jesús Henares-Montiel
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública, Granada, Spain.,Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica y en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (ibs. GRANADA), Granada, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Meyer SR, Mosha NR, Shakespeare T, Kuper H, Mtolela G, Harvey S, Kapiga S, Mshana G, Stöckl H. Disability and intimate partner violence: a cross-sectional study from Mwanza, Tanzania. Disabil Health J 2022; 16:101404. [PMID: 36522283 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2022.101404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women with disabilities are at heightened risk of experiencing intimate partner violence [IPV], although the mechanisms through which disability acts as a risk factor for IPV are not clear. OBJECTIVE We analyzed cross-sectional data (n = 867) from Wave 3 of the MAISHA longitudinal study, conducted in Mwanza, Tanzania, to i) describe the levels of disability and IPV amongst women, and ii) to assess the association between level and type of disability and IPV experience. METHODS IPV was assessed using the WHO Multi-Country study instrument. Levels of disability (none, mild and severe) were categorized based on responses to the Washington Group Short Set questions. We fitted logistic regression models to determine the risk of experiencing each type of IPV according to disability level and type of disability. RESULTS We found significant associations between mild and severe disability and different types of IPV. For example, in multivariate analyses controlling for socio-demographic variables, women reporting severe disability were significantly more likely to report physical and/or sexual IPV, sexual IPV. controlling behaviors, economic IPV, and severe IPV, whereas for mild disability compared to no disability, physical and/or sexual IPV, sexual IPV, and economic IPV were significantly more likely to be reported. Cognitive disability was a significant correlate of all forms of IPV apart from physical IPV. CONCLUSIONS Our findings that specific types of disability and not others were associated with an elevated risk of IPV exposure indicate the need for nuanced measurement and analysis of the association between disability and IPV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R Meyer
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry, and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Elisabeth-Winterhalter-Weg 6, 81377, München, Germany
| | - Neema R Mosha
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry, and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Elisabeth-Winterhalter-Weg 6, 81377, München, Germany; Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, PO Box 11936, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Tom Shakespeare
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, UK
| | - Hannah Kuper
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, UK
| | - Grace Mtolela
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, PO Box 11936, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Sheila Harvey
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, PO Box 11936, Mwanza, Tanzania; Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, UK
| | - Saidi Kapiga
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, PO Box 11936, Mwanza, Tanzania; Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
| | - Gerry Mshana
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, PO Box 11936, Mwanza, Tanzania; National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Heidi Stöckl
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry, and Epidemiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Elisabeth-Winterhalter-Weg 6, 81377, München, Germany; Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Shi L. Public Opinion About #MeToo Victims and Offenders: A Nationwide Experiment. Violence Against Women 2022; 28:3154-3173. [PMID: 34882031 DOI: 10.1177/10778012211054868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
During the #MeToo movement, many sexual assault survivors are discredited because of their delay in disclosure or failure to report to the police. The current study investigates which factors influence public opinion towards sexual assault victims and offenders by analyzing data from a national factorial survey. Results show disclosing the offense immediately to the public, reporting to the police, and having a witness are positively related to punitive attitudes towards the offender, via increased perceived credibility of the victim. The results highlight the importance of understanding extralegal factors in shaping stereotypic views about sexual assault in the #MeToo era.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luzi Shi
- Department of Criminal Justice, 10646Bridgewater State University, Bridgewater, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Meyer SR, Stöckl H, Vorfeld C, Kamenov K, García-Moreno C. A scoping review of measurement of violence against women and disability. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263020. [PMID: 35100320 PMCID: PMC8803172 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Existing evidence indicates that prevalence of violence against women with disability is elevated compared to women without disability. We conducted a scoping review with a focus on measurement to assess the forms of measurement and study design utilized to explore the intersection of violence against women with disabilities, and to identify strengths and limitations in current approaches to measuring violence against women with disabilities. This scoping review is designed to inform current debates and discussions regarding how to generate evidence concerning violence against women with disabilities. METHODS AND RESULTS We conducted systematic searches of the following databases: PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL, PILOTS, ERIC, Social Work Abstracts, International Bibliography of the Social Sciences, Social Services Abstracts, ProQuest Criminal Justice, and Dissertations & Theses Global, and conducted structured searches of national statistics and surveys and grey literature available on-line. We identified 174 manuscripts or reports for inclusion. n = 113 manuscripts or reports utilized acts-specific measurement of violence. In terms of measurement of disability, we found that amongst the included manuscripts and reports, n = 75 utilized measures of functioning limitations (n = 20 of these were Washington Group questions), n = 15 utilized a single question approach and n = 67 defined participants in the research as having a disability based on a diagnosis or self-report of a health condition or impairment. DISCUSSION This scoping review provides a comprehensive overview of measurement of violence against women with disabilities and measurement of violence within disability-focused research. We identified several important gaps in the evidence, including lack of sex and disability disaggregation, limited evidence concerning adaptation of data collection methods to ensure accessibility of research activities for women with disabilities, and limited evidence concerning differential relationships between types of disability and violence exposure. This scoping review provides directions for sub-analyses of the included studies and further research to address gaps in evidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R. Meyer
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Heidi Stöckl
- The Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry, and Epidemiology, University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Cecilia Vorfeld
- Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kaloyan Kamenov
- Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Claudia García-Moreno
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fisher MH, Baird JV, Currey AD, Hodapp RM. Victimisation and Social Vulnerability of Adults with Intellectual Disability: A Review of Research Extending beyond Wilson and Brewer. AUSTRALIAN PSYCHOLOGIST 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/ap.12180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marisa H Fisher
- Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Special Education, Michigan State University,
| | - Jessie V Baird
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center and Department of Special Education, Vanderbilt University,
| | - Andrew D Currey
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center and Department of Special Education, Vanderbilt University,
| | - Robert M Hodapp
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center and Department of Special Education, Vanderbilt University,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Coston BM. Disability, sexual orientation, and the mental health outcomes of intimate partner violence: A comparative study of women in the U.S. Disabil Health J 2019; 12:164-170. [PMID: 30448101 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on disabled non-heterosexual women's post-intimate partner violence mental health outcomes-such as anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and alcohol use-is lacking. OBJECTIVE To examine the impact of the intersection of disability and sexual orientation on women's post-intimate partner violence mental health outcomes: including difficulty sleeping, missing school or work, or reporting some post-traumatic stress disorder symptomology and a self-reported subjective measure of overall wellbeing. METHODS Data come from the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (2010). A series of chi-square analyses were conducted (applying standardized sample weights and adjusting standard errors for both clustering and stratification for survey data). RESULTS Bisexual women are significantly more likely than straight women to report being disabled prior to victimization, but all disabled women-regardless of sexual orientation-are equivalently likely to rate their mental health as poor and/or actively experience difficulty sleeping, difficulty going to work or school, and/or PTSD. CONCLUSIONS Aligned with previous work, this study finds that bisexual women are significantly more likely than straight women to be disabled prior to experiencing all forms of intimate partner violence; and that disabled women, generally, are significantly more likely than not-disabled women to experience the negative mental health consequences of that violence. However, contrary to previous work, there are no sexual orientation disparities in said mental health outcomes among disabled women. Clinically, it is important for health care providers to be aware of the significant impact of intimate partner violence on the disabled women they regularly provide care to.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bethany M Coston
- Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Bethany M. Coston, 919 W. Franklin St., Richmond, VA, 23284, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Holdsworth E, Trifonova V, Tanton C, Kuper H, Datta J, Macdowall W, Mercer CH. Sexual behaviours and sexual health outcomes among young adults with limiting disabilities: findings from third British National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal-3). BMJ Open 2018; 8:e019219. [PMID: 29980540 PMCID: PMC6124606 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-019219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore whether the sexual behaviours and sexual health outcomes of young adults with self-reported disabilities that they perceive limit their activities ('limiting disability') differ from those without disability. DESIGN Complex survey analyses of cross-sectional probability sample survey data collected between September 2010 and August 2012 using computer-assisted personal interviewing and computer-assisted self-interview. SETTING British general population. PARTICIPANTS 7435 women and men aged 17-34 years, resident in private households in Britain, interviewed for the third National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Self-reported sexual behaviour and sexual health outcomes. RESULTS Approximately 1 in 10 participants reported having a limiting disability. Sexual behaviours were similar between those with limiting disability and those without, with a few exceptions. Women and men with limiting disability were less likely to report having sexual partner(s) (past year, adjusted ORs (AORs) for age and social class: AORs: 0.71, 0.75, respectively). Women with limiting disability were more likely to report having same-sex partner(s) in the past 5 years (AOR: 2.39). Differences were seen in sexual health outcomes, especially among women; those with limiting disability were more likely to report having experienced non-volitional sex (ever, AOR: 3.08), STI diagnoses (ever, AOR: 1.43) and sought help/advice regarding their sex life (past year, AOR: 1.56). Women with limiting disability were also more likely to feel distressed/worried about their sex life than those without limiting disability (AORs: 1.61). None of these associations were seen in men. CONCLUSIONS Young adults with limiting disability, especially women, are more likely to report adverse sexual health outcomes than those without, despite comparatively few behavioural differences. It is important to ensure that people with disabilities are included in sexual health promotion and service planning, and targeted policy and programme interventions are needed to address negative sexual health outcomes disproportionally experienced by people with disabilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Holdsworth
- Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Clare Tanton
- Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Hannah Kuper
- Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jessica Datta
- Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Wendy Macdowall
- Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Medicolegal study of sexual violence cases in Pekanbaru, Indonesia: prevalence, pattern, and Indonesian legal framework. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.1186/s41935-018-0067-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
|
10
|
Mukhtar SA, Smith DA, Phillips MA, Kelly MC, Zilkens RR, Semmens JB. Capturing sexual assault data: An information system designed by forensic clinicians and healthcare researchers. Health Inf Manag 2017; 47:46-55. [PMID: 28537201 DOI: 10.1177/1833358316687575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Sexual Assault Resource Center (SARC) in Perth, Western Australia provides free 24-hour medical, forensic, and counseling services to persons aged over 13 years following sexual assault. OBJECTIVE The aim of this research was to design a data management system that maintains accurate quality information on all sexual assault cases referred to SARC, facilitating audit and peer-reviewed research. METHODS The work to develop SARC Medical Services Clinical Information System (SARC-MSCIS) took place during 2007-2009 as a collaboration between SARC and Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia. Patient demographics, assault details, including injury documentation, and counseling sessions were identified as core data sections. A user authentication system was set up for data security. Data quality checks were incorporated to ensure high-quality data. RESULTS An SARC-MSCIS was developed containing three core data sections having 427 data elements to capture patient's data. Development of the SARC-MSCIS has resulted in comprehensive capacity to support sexual assault research. Four additional projects are underway to explore both the public health and criminal justice considerations in responding to sexual violence. The data showed that 1,933 sexual assault episodes had occurred among 1881 patients between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2015. Sexual assault patients knew the assailant as a friend, carer, acquaintance, relative, partner, or ex-partner in 70% of cases, with 16% assailants being a stranger to the patient. CONCLUSION This project has resulted in the development of a high-quality data management system to maintain information for medical and forensic services offered by SARC. This system has also proven to be a reliable resource enabling research in the area of sexual violence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Aqif Mukhtar
- 1 Centre for Population Health Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Debbie A Smith
- 2 Sexual Assault Resource Centre, Women and Newborn Health Service, Western Australia Department of Health, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Maureen A Phillips
- 1 Centre for Population Health Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,2 Sexual Assault Resource Centre, Women and Newborn Health Service, Western Australia Department of Health, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Maire C Kelly
- 2 Sexual Assault Resource Centre, Women and Newborn Health Service, Western Australia Department of Health, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Renate R Zilkens
- 1 Centre for Population Health Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - James B Semmens
- 1 Centre for Population Health Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Basile KC, Breiding MJ, Smith SG. Disability and Risk of Recent Sexual Violence in the United States. Am J Public Health 2016; 106:928-33. [PMID: 26890182 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2015.303004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the relative prevalence of recent (past 12 months) penetrative and nonpenetrative sexual violence comparing men and women with and without a disability. METHODS Data are from the 2010 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, a national telephone survey of US adults, and includes an expansive measure of sexual violence victimization. A total of 9086 women and 7421 men completed the telephone survey in 2010. RESULTS Compared with persons without a disability, persons with a disability were at increased risk for recent rape for women (adjusted odds ratio = 3.3; 95% confidence interval = 1.6, 6.7), and being made to penetrate a perpetrator for men (adjusted odds ratio = 4.2; 95% confidence interval = 1.6, 10.8). An estimated 39% of women raped in the 12 months preceding the survey had a disability at the time of the rape. For women and men, having a disability was associated with an increased risk of sexual coercion and noncontact unwanted sexual experiences. CONCLUSIONS In this nationally representative sample, men and women with a disability were at increased risk for recent sexual violence, compared to those without a disability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen C Basile
- Kathleen C. Basile and Sharon G. Smith are with the Division of Violence Prevention at the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA. Matthew J. Breiding is with the Division of Unintentional Injury Prevention at the National Center for Injury Prevention and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Matthew J Breiding
- Kathleen C. Basile and Sharon G. Smith are with the Division of Violence Prevention at the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA. Matthew J. Breiding is with the Division of Unintentional Injury Prevention at the National Center for Injury Prevention and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Sharon G Smith
- Kathleen C. Basile and Sharon G. Smith are with the Division of Violence Prevention at the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA. Matthew J. Breiding is with the Division of Unintentional Injury Prevention at the National Center for Injury Prevention and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Elliott Smith RA, Pick LH. Sexual Assault Experienced by Deaf Female Undergraduates: Prevalence and Characteristics. VIOLENCE AND VICTIMS 2015; 30:948-959. [PMID: 26439612 DOI: 10.1891/0886-6708.vv-d-14-00057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 25% of hearing women in the United States experience rape in their life-time, whereas deaf women have been found to experience increased rates of assault consistent with other marginalized populations. This study explored sexual assault prevalence and characteristics of assault in deaf female undergraduate students. Results revealed that more than two-thirds of the participants (69%) endorsed experiencing at least one assault and more than half (56%) experienced multiple types of assault. Most assaults were committed by a man known to the survivor. Characteristics (e.g., hearing status, primary language, and ethnicity) of the survivors and the assailants are explored. The implications of this data are discussed as well as the development of culturally and linguistically sensitive outreach and educational programs.
Collapse
|
13
|
McQuiller Williams L, Porter JL. The Relationship Between Child Maltreatment and Partner Violence Victimization and Perpetration Among College Students: Focus on Auditory Status and Gender. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2015; 30:2304-2325. [PMID: 25287415 DOI: 10.1177/0886260514552443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Partner violence is a pervasive public health concern that has received significant attention over the past three decades. Although a number of studies have reported that college students who are Deaf or hard of hearing are at an increased risk of experiencing partner violence compared with their hearing counterparts, little is known about partner violence perpetration among college students who are Deaf or hard of hearing. Furthermore, beyond disability, studies examining partner violence among students with disabilities tend to ignore other potential risk factors that may increase the risk of partner violence as a victim and/or a perpetrator. This exploratory study examines the extent of partner violence among male and female college students by auditory status and the relationship between experiencing and perpetrating partner abuse (i.e., physical abuse and psychological abuse) and child maltreatment (i.e., witnessing abuse and experiencing child physical abuse). The study also examines gender differences in the relationship between child maltreatment and physical and psychological abuse victimization and perpetration. Data were collected from a sample of approximately 680 college students at a northeastern university. Findings indicate that having witnessed interparental abuse as a child was only significant for being an adult victim of physical abuse. Having been a child victim of parental abuse was not significant for any of the abuse measures. Gender was only significant for being an adult victim of physical abuse. Deaf students were significantly more likely to report all abuse measures. Implications and directions for further research are discussed.
Collapse
|
14
|
Mitra M, Mouradian VE. Intimate partner violence in the relationships of men with disabilities in the United States: relative prevalence and health correlates. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2014; 29:3150-3166. [PMID: 24860076 DOI: 10.1177/0886260514534526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Despite the growing literature on intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization against people with disabilities, few studies have examined IPV against men with disabilities. This study uses population-based data to examine the prevalence of past-year and lifetime IPV against men with disabilities in the United States in comparison with men without disabilities and women with and without disabilities, compare the demographic characteristics of men with disabilities who reported IPV to those of other men, and examine associations of IPV and disability status with mental and physical health and other health risks among men. Results indicate that, adjusting for demographic characteristics, men with disabilities were more likely to report lifetime IPV than men without disabilities and, among those reporting any lifetime IPV, men with disabilities were more likely to report past-year IPV than both nondisabled men and women. With few exceptions, comparisons of health indicators revealed that men with disabilities reporting lifetime IPV were more likely than other men to report poor health status and to report engaging in health risk behaviors. Directions for future research and programmatic and policy implications of these results are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Mitra
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Shrewsbury, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sudupe Moreno A. Age differences among victims of sexual assault: A comparison between children, adolescents and adults. J Forensic Leg Med 2013; 20:465-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2013.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2012] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
16
|
Du Mont J, Macdonald S, White M, Turner L. "She was truly an angel": Women with disabilities' satisfaction with hospital-based sexual assault and domestic violence services. JOURNAL OF FORENSIC NURSING 2013; 9:129-139. [PMID: 24158150 DOI: 10.1097/jfn.0b013e31829e9608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Little is known about the characteristics of women with disabilities who have experienced abuse and their satisfaction with care received from specialized healthcare providers working in hospital-based violence services. METHOD To address this gap, we surveyed clients presenting to 30 sexual assault/domestic violence treatment centers (SA/DVTCs) in Ontario. RESULTS Of the 920 women aged 12 years or older who completed a survey, 194 (21%) reported having a disability. Bivariate analyses revealed that women with a disability who experienced abuse were more likely than those without a disability to be older, separated, widowed or divorced, and unemployed; to live alone or to be homeless or living in a shelter; and to report less support from family and friends or colleagues. Women with disabilities were less likely to have been assaulted by acquaintances known for < 24 hours, to be students, and to have been accompanied to the SA/DVTC by another person. Women with disabilities were also more likely than those without disabilities to sustain physical injuries in the assault. Despite these significant differences, almost all women with disabilities rated the care received as excellent or good (97%) and reported that they received the care needed (98%); were able to choose the preferred care (95%); felt safe during the visit (96%); and were treated sensitively (97%), respectfully (96%), and in a nonjudgmental manner (96%). Furthermore, 96% stated that they would recommend the services to others. CONCLUSION Women with disabilities were overwhelmingly satisfied with SA/DVTC services. However, given their distinct vulnerabilities and increased risk of being injured, attending health providers should receive training relevant to working with this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janice Du Mont
- Author Affiliations: 1Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital and the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto; 2Women's College Hospital and Ontario Network of Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Treatment Centres; and 3Ontario Network of Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Treatment Centres
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Women with disabilities are at greater risk for physical abuse than women without disabilities. However, no previous population-based studies have examined physical abuse against women with disabilities around the time of pregnancy, a critical period for mother and child. The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence of physical abuse before and during pregnancy among a representative sample of Massachusetts women with and without disabilities. Data from the 2007-2008 Massachusetts Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) were analyzed in 2010. Disability prevalence was 4.9% (95% CI = 3.9-6.2) among Massachusetts women giving birth during 2007-2008. The prevalence of physical abuse during the 12-months before pregnancy among women with disabilities was 13.6% (95% CI = 7.2-24.0) compared to 2.8% for women without disabilities (95% CI = 2.1-3.7). Similarly, 8.1% (95% CI = 4.0-15.7) of women with disabilities compared to 2.3% (95% CI = 1.7-3.1) of women without disabilities experienced physical abuse during pregnancy. Multivariate analyses indicated that women with disabilities were more likely to report physical abuse before pregnancy (OR = 4.3, 95% CI = 1.9-9.7), during pregnancy (OR = 2.8, 95% CI = 1.1-7.1), or during either time period (OR = 3.2, 95% CI = 1.4-7.1) than women without disabilities while controlling for maternal age, education, race/Hispanic ethnicity, marital status and household poverty status. No difference was observed by disability status in the likelihood of prenatal-care providers talking to women about physical abuse. These analyses reveal disproportionate prevalence of physical abuse before and during pregnancy among women with disabilities. Screening for physical abuse and timely referral of women in need of assistance are critical to optimize health outcomes for both mother and child.
Collapse
|
18
|
Plummer SB, Findley PA. Women with disabilities' experience with physical and sexual abuse: review of the literature and implications for the field. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2012; 13:15-29. [PMID: 22070987 DOI: 10.1177/1524838011426014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
While studies suggest that the rate of abuse of women with disabilities is similar or higher compared to the general population, there continues to be a lack of attention to this issue. Women with disabilities are at particularly high risk of abuse, both through typical forms of violence (physical, sexual, and emotional) and those that target one's disability. In an effort to highlight the need for increased attention to this issue, this article reviews the current peer-reviewed research in this field. The authors outline recommendations for future research goals and provide implications for research, practice, and policy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara-Beth Plummer
- Center on Violence Against Women & Children, School of Social Work, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, NJ, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mitra M, Mouradian VE, Diamond M. Sexual violence victimization against men with disabilities. Am J Prev Med 2011; 41:494-7. [PMID: 22011420 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2011.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2011] [Revised: 05/18/2011] [Accepted: 07/08/2011] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior research has shown a high prevalence of sexual violence against women with disabilities. However, no previous population-based studies have examined such victimization against men with disabilities. PURPOSE The purpose of this paper is to document the prevalence of lifetime and past-year sexual violence victimization among a representative sample of men with disabilities in Massachusetts and to compare its prevalence among men with disabilities to that of men without disabilities and women with and without disabilities. METHODS Data from the Massachusetts Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2005-2009 were analyzed in 2010 using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS Among 25,756 survey respondents, approximately 21.1% of Massachusetts men and 21.0% of women reported a disability. The prevalence of lifetime sexual violence victimization was 13.9% (95% CI=10.7%, 17.1%) among men with disabilities; 3.7% (95% CI=2.9%, 4.5%) among men without disabilities; 26.6% (95% CI=23.4%, 29.7%) among women with disabilities; and 12.4% (95% CI=11.2%, 13.6%) among women without disabilities. Similarly, men with disabilities were more likely than men without disabilities to report lifetime completed and attempted rape and past-year sexual violence victimization. Multivariate analyses controlling for sociodemographic characteristics indicated that men with disabilities were more than four times more likely to report lifetime and past-year victimization than men without disabilities. CONCLUSIONS Men with disabilities are at a heightened risk for lifetime and current sexual violence victimization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Mitra
- Center for Health Policy and Research, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Shrewsbury, 01545, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Porter JL, Williams LM. Auditory status and experiences of abuse among college students. VIOLENCE AND VICTIMS 2011; 26:788-798. [PMID: 22288096 DOI: 10.1891/0886-6708.26.6.788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Studies that explore experiences of abuse among deaf or hard of hearing college students are sparse and usually focus on lifetime experiences rather than the college years. A random sample of more than 1,000 college students at a campus in Upstate New York provided the data for this study. An institute for the deaf or hard of hearing was one of the colleges at the university and provided a unique opportunity to explore experiences among this demographic. Victimization rates and experiences by auditory status--deaf and hard of hearing or hearing--were examined. Binomial regression analyses were employed and findings indicated a significant association with being deaf or hard of hearing and physical and psychological abuse at the hands of a partner. Implications for policy and future research are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judy L Porter
- Criminal Justice Department, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY 14623, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lin LP, Yen CF, Kuo FY, Wu JL, Lin JD. Sexual assault of people with disabilities: results of a 2002-2007 national report in Taiwan. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2009; 30:969-975. [PMID: 19269777 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2009.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2009] [Accepted: 02/03/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Sexual violence against people with disabilities is widespread and linked to negative public health and social outcomes. The objectives of the present study were to describe and analyze and thus provide an overview of the current state of affairs concerning sexual assault among people with disabilities, including reported prevalence and trends, over the period from 2002 through 2007 in Taiwan. The present study analyzed nationwide data from the 2002-2007 "Sexual assaults report system" derived primarily from the Council of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assaults Prevention, Ministry of the Interior, Taiwan. The data took into account the number of cases and disability type in persons reported to have been sexually assaulted, and to analyze the reported rate of sexual assaults among this section of the population in Taiwan. In addition, the study used a linear estimation model to examine with time (2002-2007) in the rate of reported sexual assaults. The rate of increase of sexual assault reported among people with disabilities was 2.7 times that of the general population (469-173%) during the period of 2002-2007. Government statistics showed that intellectually disabled persons accounted for the largest proportion (>50%) of reported sexual assault cases among the disabled, followed by persons with chronic psychosis, who accounted for one-third of the reported sexual assault cases among the disabled population. The reported rate of sexual assault increased from 0.9 to 2.42 per ten-thousand people in the general population and from 1.24 to 5.74 per ten-thousand disabled persons. Intellectual disability, chronic psychosis and voice and speech impairments were consistently associated with a higher prevalence of sexual assault than the general population. The line of best fit estimated from a linear model showed a significant change over the study period in the reported number of sexual assault cases among disabled people. The results highlight the requirement for further study to explore the needs of people with disabilities with regards to education and other strategies to prevent sexual assault, particularly in the most vulnerable group-those with intellectual disability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan-Ping Lin
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Wacker J, Macy R, Barger E, Parish S. Sexual assault prevention for women with intellectual disabilities: a critical review of the evidence. INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2009; 47:249-262. [PMID: 19650680 DOI: 10.1352/1934-9556-47.4.249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2008] [Accepted: 10/23/2008] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Although research has indicated that women with intellectual disabilities are significantly burdened with sexual violence, there is a dearth of sexual assault prevention research for them. To help address this serious knowledge gap, the authors summarize the findings of general sexual assault prevention research and discuss its implications for women with intellectual disabilities. Next, the authors evaluate interventions published in both the peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed literature from a comprehensive search of the scientific literature as well as from recommendations made by disability and sexual assault service providers in the United States. The results of this comprehensive literature review found 4 sexual violence prevention programs that were designed for participants with intellectual disabilities and that had undergone some type of evaluation. Each program and its evaluation are critically and systematically reviewed. Based on the authors' review of these programs as well as the wider literature, they conclude with recommendations and discuss the work that remains to decrease the incidence of sexual violence against women with intellectual disabilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Wacker
- University of North Carolina, School of Social Work, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-3550, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Powers LE, Renker P, Robinson-Whelen S, Oschwald M, Hughes R, Swank P, Curry MA. Interpersonal violence and women with disabilities: analysis of safety promoting behaviors. Violence Against Women 2009; 15:1040-69. [PMID: 19608856 DOI: 10.1177/1077801209340309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Very little information exists related to the interpersonal violence safety promoting behaviors of women with disabilities. Information about women's use of safety promoting behaviors was gathered from 305 disabled and deaf women who completed an anonymous Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interview. Exploratory factor analyses revealed factors related to seeking abuse-related safety information, building abuse-related safety promoting skills, using relationship support, planning for emergencies, taking legal action, and managing safety in personal assistance relationships. Four of these factors demonstrated significant relationships to women's experience of different forms of abuse and their perpetrator's characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurie E Powers
- Regional Research Institute for Human Services, Portland State University, OR, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|