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Closson K, Zulu B, Jesson J, Dietrich JJ, Pakhomova T, Basham CA, Beksinska M, Kaida A. Examining gender and sexual orientation differences in physical intimate partner violence experienced and perpetrated by youth living in eThekwini district South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2300. [PMID: 37990170 PMCID: PMC10664660 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17199-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young women and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Non-binary/no gender, or Questioning (LGBTQ+) youth in South Africa face some of the highest global levels of intimate partner violence (IPV). Given limited evidence in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has fuelled IPV globally, we aimed to describe and compare experiences and perpetration of IPV of youth aged 16-24 by sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI). METHODS During the study period (December 2021-May 2022), youth aged 16-24 from eThekwini district, South Africa completed an online survey to understand multilevel impacts of the pandemic on youth. Participants were asked about experiences and perpetration of physical IPV since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020). Descriptive statistics and adjusted logistic regressions compared the likelihood of experiencing and/or perpetrating physical IPV between cisgender and transgender inclusive heterosexual men; heterosexual women; gay, bisexual, or questioning men [GBQM]; lesbian, gay, bisexual, or questioning women [LGBQW]; or gender/sexual non-conforming youth [non-conforming]. RESULTS Of 1,588 youth (mean age = 21.7 [SD = 2.3]; 71.7% Black) with non-missing SOGI and physical IPV data, 238 (15.0%) were LGBTQ+ (40.3% LGBQW and 36.1% non-conforming). Overall, 14.6% of respondents experienced physical IPV and 9.8% perpetrated physical IPV since the start of the pandemic, which differed by SOGI (12.3% of heterosexual men, 13.9% of heterosexual women, 22.0% of GBQM, 18.2% of LGBQW, and 25.0% of non-conforming youth experienced and 10.3% of heterosexual men; 7.7% of heterosexual women; 10.0% of GBQM; 18.2% of LGBQW; and 16.7% of non-conforming youth perpetrated). In adjusted models, compared to heterosexual women, non-conforming youth had increased odds of experiencing (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.36; 95%CI, 1.26-4.39) physical IPV and compared to heterosexual men, non-conforming youth had greater odds of perpetrating physical IPV (aOR = 2.19; 95%CI, 1.07-4.48) during the pandemic. CONCLUSION Over one in six youth in our study experienced and one in ten perpetrated physical IPV since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with gender and sexual non-conforming youth experiencing and perpetrating IPV at significantly greater rates than cisgender/heterosexual peers. Our findings highlight the need for gender transformative efforts that move beyond the gender binary to support healthy relationships and IPV prevention for LGBTQ + youth in South Africa and globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalysha Closson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
- Center on Gender Equity and Health, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Bongiwe Zulu
- Maternal Adolescent and Child Health Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Julie Jesson
- Center for Epidemiology and Research in POpulation Health (CERPOP), Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Janan J Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tatiana Pakhomova
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - C Andrew Basham
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics, Brigham and Women's Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mags Beksinska
- Maternal Adolescent and Child Health Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada.
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Garay-Villarroel L, Castrechini-Trotta A, Armadans-Tremolosa I. Risk Factors Linked to Violence in Female Same-Sex Couples in Hispanic America: A Scoping Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2456. [PMID: 37685489 PMCID: PMC10487161 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11172456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) among women is an understudied topic in Hispanic Americans; therefore, we aim to describe this phenomenon and its associated risk factors in comparison with other sexual orientations and practices. A scoping review was carried out using the following databases: Scopus, Web of Science, Redalyc, Scielo.org, and Dialnet. The following keywords were used: same-sex, intragender, couple, domestic, and partner violence. The inclusion criteria applied were studies published between 2000 and 2022 with a minimum participation of 15% of Hispanic Americans, resulting in 23 articles. The findings showed a lower presence of studies on violence in women compared to men. Minority stress, power dynamics, social support, and childhood experiences of violence, which are related and complementary to each other, were identified as risk factors. We concluded that there is little research on IPV among women. In addition, studies require a renewed focus to comprehend this type of violence, which cannot be equated with those of heterosexual couples. This approach continues to perpetuate the invisibility of this problem, and, therefore, a more inclusive and specific perspective is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonor Garay-Villarroel
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, University of Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (L.G.-V.); (I.A.-T.)
| | - Angela Castrechini-Trotta
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, University of Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (L.G.-V.); (I.A.-T.)
- PsicoSAO—Research Group in Social, Environmental and Organizational Psychology, University of Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Immaculada Armadans-Tremolosa
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, University of Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (L.G.-V.); (I.A.-T.)
- PsicoSAO—Research Group in Social, Environmental and Organizational Psychology, University of Barcelona, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
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Intersectional Stigma and Sexual Health Among Sexual and Gender Minority Women. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-022-00338-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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McIntosh R, Lobo JD, Carvalho N, Ironson G. Learning to forget: Hippocampal-amygdala connectivity partially mediates the effect of sexual trauma severity on verbal recall in older women undiagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:631-643. [PMID: 35156236 PMCID: PMC11021133 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Verbal learning deficits are common among sexually traumatized women who have not been formally diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Aberrant resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) of the amygdala and hippocampus are implicated in PTSD and verbal memory impairment. We tested rsFC between bilateral dentate gyrus (DG) and both centromedial (CM) and basolateral (BL) nuclei of the amygdala as statistical mediators for the effect of sexual trauma-related symptom severity on delayed verbal recall performance in 63 older women (age: 60-85 years) undiagnosed with PTSD. Participant data were drawn from the NKI-Rockland Study. Individuals completed a 10-min resting-state scan, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), and the Sexual Abuse Trauma Index (SATI) from the Trauma Symptom Checklist. Z-scores indicating rsFC of DG with BL and CM amygdala seeds were evaluated in two separate mediation models. Higher SATI scores were associated with lower RAVLT after controlling for age, β = -.23, 95% CI [.48, .03], p = .039. This effect was negated upon adding a negative path from SATI to rsFC of left DG and right CM, β = -.29, 95% CI [-.52, -.02], p = .022, and a positive path from that seed pair to RAVLT List A recall, β = .28, 95% CI [.03, 0.48], p = .015. Chi-square fit indices supported partial mediation by this seed pair, p = .762. In the absence of PTSD sexual trauma symptoms partially relate to verbal learning deficits as a function of aberrant rsFC between left hippocampus DG and right amygdala CM nuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger McIntosh
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Judith D Lobo
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Nicole Carvalho
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Gail Ironson
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
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Harden J, McAllister P, Spencer CM, Stith SM. The Dark Side of the Rainbow: Queer Women's Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2022; 23:301-313. [PMID: 32723162 DOI: 10.1177/1524838020933869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a worldwide issue that, although often thought of as a very gendered and heteronormative crime (male perpetrators and female victims within heterosexual relationships), occurs in all kinds of relationships. The purpose of this study is to examine and raise awareness of how IPV operates within female same-gender relationships. Researchers utilized a narrative inquiry framework, as well as thematic analysis, in order to conduct a qualitative synthesis of articles that examined IPV in female same-gender relationships. Articles were identified through database searches for studies published between 2000 and 2019 using key search terms. Studies were included if they were qualitative in nature (including direct quotes from participants), examined IPV within female same-gender relationships, and were written in English. A total of 19 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. Findings were categorized as barriers to help and support, themes within experiences of IPV, or recommendations for helping professionals. Themes within categories included, among others, a lack of framework to identify abuse; mistrust of law enforcement; power dynamics related to parenthood, race, and gender presentation; and fears of contributing to heterosexism. Findings from this study can serve to better inform helping professionals about considerations to keep in mind when working within lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, plus various additional sexual minorities' communities and survivors of female same-gender violence.
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Muparamoto N. "Lezibian/mulezi": adoption of "globalized" lesbian identity and secondary self-labels among same-sex attracted women in Harare. JOURNAL OF LESBIAN STUDIES 2021; 26:269-285. [PMID: 34823449 DOI: 10.1080/10894160.2021.2006868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Drawing from ethnographic research, incorporating informal conversations, semi-structured interviews and a focus group discussion, the paper explores the subjective meanings and construction of the "lesbian" identity in a "hostile" environment among selected same-sex attracted women in Harare. While the globally circulating identity labels are loaded with historical baggage which can be limiting or confusing in non-western contexts, most of the study participants related to some of the labels that are prominent in the present-day, western-inspired global discourse on same-sex relations. Self-styling and the quest to exhibit masculine decorum was a central aspect in the narratives of most "butch" identifying women. For most butch identifying women being lesbian was closely interwoven with considerations about one's gendered self. However not all participants were comfortable with the circulating identity labels as they found them restrictive and loaded. While subjective preferences of the participants demonstrate complexity in how "lesbianism" is locally constructed and experienced, the lesbian identity is certainly not obsolete in Harare among same-sex attracted women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Muparamoto
- Wits Centre for Diversity Studies, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Demography Settlement and Development, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Ruiz AM, Luebke J, Klein K, Moore K, Gonzalez M, Dressel A, Mkandawire-Valhmu L. An integrative literature review and critical reflection of intersectionality theory. Nurs Inq 2021; 28:e12414. [PMID: 34153140 DOI: 10.1111/nin.12414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Intersectionality theory has been used by nursing scholars to offer insight into how multiple systems of oppression mutually interact to impact health and to examine how multiple social modes of existence shape individual and group experiences of health inequality. The application of intersectionality theory, however, requires a reflexive critical lens to more effectively inform nursing science and practice. We draw on a comprehensive integrative literature review to offer a critical reflection by considering the semantic and structural consistency, generalizability, simplicity and complexity, and the utility and value of intersectionality theory to nursing science and practice. If nurses are to effectively utilize intersectionality theory, it is essential that we are able to analyze and speak to the multiple modes of existence based on historical, social, economic, and political processes that impact the health of those we serve. Critical examination of intersectionality enables nurses to further consider its value and usefulness when applied to nursing science and practice, particularly when addressing health and social inequalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M Ruiz
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Jeneile Luebke
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Katie Klein
- Women and Gender Studies, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Kaylen Moore
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Michael Gonzalez
- Joseph J. Zilber School of Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Anne Dressel
- Center for Global Health Equity, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Essack Z, Lynch I, Kaunda CJ, Stephenson R, Darbes L, van Rooyen H. Power relations in sexual agreements among male couples in Southern Africa. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2020; 22:904-919. [PMID: 31347458 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2019.1636291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Sexual agreements between same-sex practising men facilitate communication about health promotion activities, including HIV prevention. In African contexts, male couples negotiate their sexual agreements in relation to rigid cultural prescriptions about male power and privilege, intense hostility towards same-sex sexualities and persistent heterogendered socio-cultural norms. Yet the impact of such norms on relationship practices and HIV risk among male couples remains inadequately explored. This qualitative study examined the role of gendered power disparities in establishing sexual agreements among male couples in two Southern African contexts. Eighteen male couples completed in-depth interviews focused on relationship practices, including sexual agreements. The research employed critical social theory to analyse power relations and socio-cultural norms shaping male couples' explicit and implicit sexual agreements, with a focus on implications for HIV risk. The findings outline different types of and motivations for sexual agreements among male couples, including qualified non-monogamy with female partners only. The study illustrates how Southern African male-male sexual practices remain embedded in a cultural context favouring the replication of heteronormative sexual behaviours and relationship practices. These heterogendered norms impact negatively on the process of establishing explicit, mutually agreed-upon sexual agreements, and thus place male couples at increased risk for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaynab Essack
- Human and Social Development Programme, Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa
- School of Law, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Ingrid Lynch
- Human and Social Development Programme, Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa
- Critical Studies in Sexualities and Reproduction Programme, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
| | - Chammah J Kaunda
- Human and Social Development Programme, Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa
- College of Theology/United Graduate School of Theology, Yonsei University
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Population and Leadership and the Center for Sexuality & Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lynae Darbes
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Heidi van Rooyen
- Human and Social Development Programme, Human Sciences Research Council, South Africa
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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