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Allen EM, Munala L, Ward-Rannow J. Do Gender-Based Violence Interventions Consider the Impacts of Climate Change? A Systematic Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024; 25:2421-2435. [PMID: 38102819 DOI: 10.1177/15248380231214793] [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: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Climate change and extreme weather events have been shown to increase incidences of gender-based violence (GBV). Numerous organizations have devoted significant time, resources, and effort to the design and implementation of interventions aimed at reducing GBV in Africa. Some interventions effectively reduce violence, but GBV persists and remains pervasive. The United Nations has called for GBV interventions that consider the impact of climate change on violence. This review aims to determine whether public health interventions intended to reduce GBV in Africa take into account the effects of climate change on the region and the population. PubMed, PsychArticles, and CINAHL databases were searched systematically in February 2023 for interventions conducted in Africa published between 2010 and 2023. There were a total of 86 articles in the final review that described 40 distinct interventions. The intervention designs included empowerment and participatory approaches (microfinance, microfinance plus, community education, and community engagement), changing social and cultural norms (community education, community engagement, and media), and school-based programs. None of the 40 interventions mentioned climate, weather, or climate change as a component of the intervention. There are several opportunities to improve existing, successful GBV interventions in order to increase their efficacy. GBV interventions could incorporate economic independence programs that do not rely on agriculture and include climate change education. These findings could facilitate the integration of two previously distinct research disciplines-climate change and GBV prevention-to inform future research and develop more effective and cost-efficient interventions.
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Micklitz HM, Glass CM, Bengel J, Sander LB. Efficacy of Psychosocial Interventions for Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024; 25:1000-1017. [PMID: 37148270 DOI: 10.1177/15248380231169481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) face serious health-related, social and economic consequences. Prior meta-analyses indicate efficacy of psychosocial interventions for support of IPV survivors, but their results are affected by methodological limitations. Extensive subgroup analyses on the moderating effects of intervention and study characteristics are lacking. To address these limitations in an up-to-date and comprehensive meta-analytic review, four literature databases (PsycInfo, Medline, Embase, and CENTRAL, March 23, 2022) were searched for randomized-controlled trials examining the efficacy of psychosocial interventions compared to control groups in improving safety-related, mental health, and psychosocial outcomes in IPV survivors. Weighted effects on IPV, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychosocial outcomes were calculated under random-effects assumption. Subgroup analyses were performed to investigate moderating effects of predefined intervention and study characteristics. Study quality was rated. In all, 80 studies were included in qualitative synthesis, and 40 studies in meta-analyses. Psychosocial interventions significantly reduced symptoms of depression (SMD: -0.15 [95% confidence interval, CI [-0.25, -0.04]; p = .006], I2 = 54%) and PTSD (SMD: -0.15 [95% CI [-0.29, -0.01]; p = .04], I2 = 52%), but not IPV reexperience (SMD: -0.02 [95% CI [ -0.09, 0.06]; p = .70], I2 = 21%) compared to control conditions at post. High-intensive and integrative interventions, combining advocacy-based and psychological components, were favorable subgroups. Yielded effects were modest and not maintained long term. The quality of evidence was low and potential harms remain unclear. Future research should adopt higher standards of research conduct and reporting and must account for the complexity and diversity of IPV experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Micklitz
- Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Carla M Glass
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Bengel
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lasse B Sander
- Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Alsina E, Browne JL, Gielkens D, Noorman MAJ, de Wit JB. Interventions to Prevent Intimate Partner Violence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Violence Against Women 2024; 30:953-980. [PMID: 37475456 PMCID: PMC10845820 DOI: 10.1177/10778012231183660] [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: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) remains a global health and human rights problem. This systematic review assesses the effects of preventive interventions on the occurrence of IPV experience or perpetration. Twenty-six studies published between January 1, 2008 and March 31, 2022 were included, contributing 91 effect sizes. Multilevel meta-analysis showed a protective pooled effect (risk ratio = 0.85, 95% CI [0.77, 0.99]). Interventions (also) including men were more effective than interventions for women only. No other moderators were found. Findings underscore that various IPV prevention interventions are now available that can improve the health and rights of women in diverse settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ema Alsina
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joyce L. Browne
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Desi Gielkens
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike A. J. Noorman
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - John B.F. de Wit
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Wood SN, Perrin N, Akumu I, Asira B, Clough A, Glass N, Campbell J, Decker MR. Risk for Severe Intimate Partner Violence in Nairobi's Informal Settlements: Tailoring the Danger Assessment to Kenya. GLOBAL HEALTH, SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2024; 12:e2300116. [PMID: 38290753 PMCID: PMC10906551 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-23-00116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Understanding the risk for severe intimate partner violence (IPV) can help women and providers assess danger. The validated, widely used Danger Assessment (DA) developed for this purpose has not been tested in a low- and middle-income country (LMIC). We tailored the DA to Nairobi, Kenya, and prospectively evaluated baseline danger against severe IPV at 3-month follow-up. METHODS We used data from the myPlan Kenya trial conducted in 3 informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya, from 2017 to 2018. DA items were refined through formative and pilot phases, yielding minor wording modifications. Quantitative analyses prospectively evaluated baseline DA against severe IPV at 3-month follow-up to understand the predictive effect of the (1) original 20-item DA, (2) 16-item Kenya-DA (highest relative risk ratios [RRR] with severe IPV), and (3) 16-item Kenya-DA weighted (weighting based on strength of RRRs). Diagnostic criteria, including C-statistics, sensitivity, specificity, receiver operating characteristic curve, and area under the curve, were examined; logistic regressions quantified the odds of each metric predicting severe IPV at follow-up. RESULTS The original 20-item DA produced the highest specificity (75.41%) and lowest sensitivity (57.14%), resulting in the overall lowest C-statistic. Compared to the 16-item Kenya-DA, the Kenya-DA weighted produced slightly higher sensitivity (66.67% vs. 64.29%) and specificity (77.05% vs. 72.13%), resulting in the highest C-statistic (0.78 vs. 0.75). All versions successfully predicted severe IPV at 3-month follow-up (original DA: odds ratio [OR]=1.26, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.12, 1.41, P<.001; Kenya-DA: OR=1.33, 95% CI=1.16, 1.53, P<.001; Kenya-DA weighted: OR=1.19, 95% CI=1.10, 1.28, P<.001). Several factors identified as homicide risk factors in other settings were not prospectively associated with severe IPV. CONCLUSION Within a high-danger LMIC context, all 3 DA configurations performed well diagnostically. We recommend the 16-item Kenya-DA given the value for simplicity and field implementation, whereas the Kenya-DA weighted can add accuracy for research purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon N Wood
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Nancy Perrin
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Irene Akumu
- Mashinani Department, Ujamaa-Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ben Asira
- Mashinani Department, Ujamaa-Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Amber Clough
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nancy Glass
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Global Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jacquelyn Campbell
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michele R Decker
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Purgato M, Prina E, Ceccarelli C, Cadorin C, Abdulmalik JO, Amaddeo F, Arcari L, Churchill R, Jordans MJ, Lund C, Papola D, Uphoff E, van Ginneken N, Tol WA, Barbui C. Primary-level and community worker interventions for the prevention of mental disorders and the promotion of well-being in low- and middle-income countries. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 10:CD014722. [PMID: 37873968 PMCID: PMC10594594 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014722.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a significant research gap in the field of universal, selective, and indicated prevention interventions for mental health promotion and the prevention of mental disorders. Barriers to closing the research gap include scarcity of skilled human resources, large inequities in resource distribution and utilization, and stigma. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness of delivery by primary workers of interventions for the promotion of mental health and universal prevention, and for the selective and indicated prevention of mental disorders or symptoms of mental illness in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). To examine the impact of intervention delivery by primary workers on resource use and costs. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Global Index Medicus, PsycInfo, WHO ICTRP, and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to 29 November 2021. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of primary-level and/or community health worker interventions for promoting mental health and/or preventing mental disorders versus any control conditions in adults and children in LMICs. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Standardized mean differences (SMD) or mean differences (MD) were used for continuous outcomes, and risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous data, using a random-effects model. We analyzed data at 0 to 1, 1 to 6, and 7 to 24 months post-intervention. For SMDs, 0.20 to 0.49 represented small, 0.50 to 0.79 moderate, and ≥ 0.80 large clinical effects. We evaluated the risk of bias (RoB) using Cochrane RoB2. MAIN RESULTS Description of studies We identified 113 studies with 32,992 participants (97 RCTs, 19,570 participants in meta-analyses) for inclusion. Nineteen RCTs were conducted in low-income countries, 27 in low-middle-income countries, 2 in middle-income countries, 58 in upper-middle-income countries and 7 in mixed settings. Eighty-three RCTs included adults and 30 RCTs included children. Cadres of primary-level workers employed primary care health workers (38 studies), community workers (71 studies), both (2 studies), and not reported (2 studies). Interventions were universal prevention/promotion in 22 studies, selective in 36, and indicated prevention in 55 RCTs. Risk of bias The most common concerns over risk of bias were performance bias, attrition bias, and reporting bias. Intervention effects 'Probably', 'may', or 'uncertain' indicates 'moderate-', 'low-', or 'very low-'certainty evidence. *Certainty of the evidence (using GRADE) was assessed at 0 to 1 month post-intervention as specified in the review protocol. In the abstract, we did not report results for outcomes for which evidence was missing or very uncertain. Adults Promotion/universal prevention, compared to usual care: - probably slightly reduced anxiety symptoms (MD -0.14, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.27 to -0.01; 1 trial, 158 participants) - may slightly reduce distress/PTSD symptoms (SMD -0.24, 95% CI -0.41 to -0.08; 4 trials, 722 participants) Selective prevention, compared to usual care: - probably slightly reduced depressive symptoms (SMD -0.69, 95% CI -1.08 to -0.30; 4 trials, 223 participants) Indicated prevention, compared to usual care: - may reduce adverse events (1 trial, 547 participants) - probably slightly reduced functional impairment (SMD -0.12, 95% CI -0.39 to -0.15; 4 trials, 663 participants) Children Promotion/universal prevention, compared to usual care: - may improve the quality of life (SMD -0.25, 95% CI -0.39 to -0.11; 2 trials, 803 participants) - may reduce adverse events (1 trial, 694 participants) - may slightly reduce depressive symptoms (MD -3.04, 95% CI -6 to -0.08; 1 trial, 160 participants) - may slightly reduce anxiety symptoms (MD -2.27, 95% CI -3.13 to -1.41; 1 trial, 183 participants) Selective prevention, compared to usual care: - probably slightly reduced depressive symptoms (SMD 0, 95% CI -0.16 to -0.15; 2 trials, 638 participants) - may slightly reduce anxiety symptoms (MD 4.50, 95% CI -12.05 to 21.05; 1 trial, 28 participants) - probably slightly reduced distress/PTSD symptoms (MD -2.14, 95% CI -3.77 to -0.51; 1 trial, 159 participants) Indicated prevention, compared to usual care: - decreased slightly functional impairment (SMD -0.29, 95% CI -0.47 to -0.10; 2 trials, 448 participants) - decreased slightly depressive symptoms (SMD -0.18, 95% CI -0.32 to -0.04; 4 trials, 771 participants) - may slightly reduce distress/PTSD symptoms (SMD 0.24, 95% CI -1.28 to 1.76; 2 trials, 448 participants). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The evidence indicated that prevention interventions delivered through primary workers - a form of task-shifting - may improve mental health outcomes. Certainty in the evidence was influenced by the risk of bias and by substantial levels of heterogeneity. A supportive network of infrastructure and research would enhance and reinforce this delivery modality across LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Purgato
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Eleonora Prina
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Caterina Ceccarelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Camilla Cadorin
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Amaddeo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Rachel Churchill
- Cochrane Common Mental Disorders, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Mark Jd Jordans
- Centre for Global Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Crick Lund
- King's Global Health Institute, Centre for Global Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Davide Papola
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Eleonora Uphoff
- Cochrane Common Mental Disorders, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Nadja van Ginneken
- Department of Primary Care and Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Wietse Anton Tol
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Corrado Barbui
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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De Filippo A, Bellatin P, Tietz N, Grant E, Whitefield A, Nkopane P, Devereux C, Crawford K, Vermeulen B, Hatcher AM. Effects of digital chatbot on gender attitudes and exposure to intimate partner violence among young women in South Africa. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2023; 2:e0000358. [PMID: 37844088 PMCID: PMC10578594 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND South Africa has among the highest rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) globally, with young women at heightened risk due to inequitable gender roles, limited relationship skills, and inadequate social support. Despite an urgent need for violence prevention in low- and middle-income settings, most efficacious approaches are time-intensive and costly to deliver. Digital, interactive chatbots may help young women navigate safer relationships and develop healthier gender beliefs and skills. METHODS Young women (18-24 years old) across South Africa were recruited via Facebook for participation in an individually randomised controlled trial (n = 19,643) during the period of June 2021-September 2021. Users were randomly allocated, using a pipeline algorithm, to one of four trial arms: Pure Control (PC) had no user engagement outside of study measures; Attention Treatment (T0) provided didactic information about sexual health through a text-based chatbot; Gamified Treatment (T1) was a behaviourally-informed gamified text-based chatbot; Narrative Treatment (T2) was a behaviourally-informed drama delivered through pre-recorded voice notes. All chatbots were delivered in WhatsApp, through which users were invited to complete brief "quizzes" comprising adapted versions of validated scales. Primary outcomes were short-form adaptations of scales for gender attitudes (Gender Relations Scale) and past-month IPV (WHO Multi-country Study Instrument). Secondary outcomes were identification of unhealthy relationship behaviours (Intimate Partner Violence Attitudes Scale) and brief screener for depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire). A direct chat link to a trained counsellor was a safety measure (accessed by 4.5% of the sample). We estimated treatment effects using ordinary least squares and heteroskedasticity robust standard errors. FINDINGS The trial retained 11,630 (59.2%) to the primary endpoint of gender attitudes. Compared to control, all treatments led to moderate and significant changes in attitudes towards greater gender equity (Cohen's D = 0.10, 0.29, 0.20 for T0, T1, and T2, respectively). The gamified chatbot (T1) had modest but significant effects on IPV: 56% of young women reported past-month IPV, compared to 62% among those without treatment (marginal effects = -0.07, 95%CI = -0.09to-0.05). The narrative treatment (T2) had no effect on IPV exposure. T1 increased identification of unhealthy relationship behaviours at a moderate and significant level (Cohen's D = 0.25). Neither T1 nor T2 had a measurable effect on depressive symptoms as measured by the brief screener. Interpretation: A behaviourally-informed, gamified chatbot increased gender equitable attitudes and was protective for IPV exposure among young women in South Africa. These effects, while modest in magnitude, could represent a meaningful impact given potential to scale the low-cost intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paloma Bellatin
- Behavioral Insights Team, New York, New York, United States of America
| | | | - Eli Grant
- Independent consultant, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Alexander Whitefield
- Behavioural Insights Team, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Economics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | | | | | | | | | - Abigail M. Hatcher
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Park S, Kim SH. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials for Intimate Partner Violence: The Effects of the Programs Based on Their Purposes. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:2115-2129. [PMID: 35427459 DOI: 10.1177/15248380221084748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a complex global problem that has serious health consequences for victims. Many intervention programs have been introduced for IPV, with various target populations, purposes, designs, and outcomes. However, a consensus has not been reached regarding which type of program has the greatest impact. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of existing interventions on IPV risk and to compare the effects of the interventions based on their purposes and designs. Method: A systematic review and meta-analytic method were utilized in this study. Through a rigorous database search, 13 randomized controlled trials that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected and included in the analysis. Results: The included interventions had a small effect size, which was statistically significant. The couple interventions aiming to reduce the risk of IPV perpetration and victimization simultaneously showed the greatest impact, compared to bystander interventions and interventions targeting either perpetrators or victims. The interventions aiming to reduce the risk of IPV perpetration showed a significant impact on changing gender equality-related knowledge and attitudes, and those aiming to reduce the risk of IPV victimization were effective in increasing knowledge and changing attitudes related to traditional norms, empowerment, and health conditions. The interventions targeting bystanders showed significant effects on increasing bystander-related attitudes and behaviors. Conclusion: Our findings provide strong evidence for future intervention programs for IPV. Long-term research to follow-up actual IPV reductions after interventions will be needed to confirm the findings of this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sihyun Park
- Department of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sin-Hyang Kim
- Department of Nursing, Shinsung University, Dangjin-Si, South Korea
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Hartmann M, Roberts ST, Triplett N, Tenza S, Maboa O, Mampuru L, Mayisela N, Mbewe D, Tolley EE, Reddy K, Palanee-Phillips T, Montgomery ET. Development of a relationship counselling website to identify and mitigate risk of intimate partner violence in the context of women's PrEP use. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2023; 2:e0000329. [PMID: 37578954 PMCID: PMC10424861 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Discreet, accessible interventions are urgently needed to mitigate the risk of intimate-partner violence (IPV) and other relationship barriers that women encounter to using HIV prevention methods such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We adapted a counsellor-administered intervention, CHARISMA, into a mobile-optimized website to enhance accessibility and reduce human resources required for HIV prevention and relationship counseling. Using human-centered design and participatory methods, CHARISMA was adapted through workshops with former CHARISMA in-person intervention participants (n = 14; ages 18-45) and web development 'sprints' combined with cognitive interviews (n = 24). 'CHARISMA mobile' was then beta-tested with 81 women naïve to the in-person intervention. In beta-testing, participants used a 'think aloud' process to provide feedback on ease of use and rated design, functionality, comprehension, confidentiality, safety, and usefulness on a scale of 1 to 5 via a survey. Data were conducted in four rounds, interspersed with rapid assessment according to go/no-go criteria, and website adaptations. The updated website was pilot tested for 'real-world' feasibility and acceptability among 159 women using their own smartphones at a location of their choice. Feedback was measured via surveys and website analytics. Workshops and cognitive interviews generated insights on technology use, contextual adaptations, and confidentiality, which were integrated into the beta version. The beta version met all 'go' criteria and was further adapted for pilot testing. In pilot testing, users found the website was useful (mean rating 4.54 out of 5), safe (4.5 out of 5), and had few concerns about confidentiality (1.75, representing low concern). On average, users rated the website more than 4 stars out of 5. Beta and pilot-testing suggested the smartphone-optimized website was well-accepted, relevant, engaging, feasible to administer, discreet and safe. Results contributed to a refined website, suitable for adaptations to other contexts and further evaluation where outcomes related to PrEP use and relationships should be assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Hartmann
- Women’s Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, California, United States of America
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sarah T. Roberts
- Women’s Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - Noah Triplett
- Women’s Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - Siyanda Tenza
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Onthatile Maboa
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lydia Mampuru
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Nonkululeko Mayisela
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Dorica Mbewe
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Krishnaveni Reddy
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- University of Washington, Department of Epidemiology; School of Public Health, Seattle, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth T. Montgomery
- Women’s Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, California, United States of America
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Novitzky P, Janssen J, Kokkeler B. A systematic review of ethical challenges and opportunities of addressing domestic violence with AI-technologies and online tools. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17140. [PMID: 37342580 PMCID: PMC10277589 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Domestic violence remains a pressing complex social problem of people of any gender, age, socio-economic status, and ethno-cultural background, an issue that worsened worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital, online, or artificial intelligence-based smart technological services, applications, and tools provide novel approaches in addressing domestic violence, including intimate partner violence. This systematic literature review analyses the ethical challenges and opportunities these (protective) digital and smart technologies provide to the stakeholders involved. Our results highlight that the public health and societal issue are the leading narratives of domestic violence, which is predominantly interpreted as gender-based violence. The review highlights an emerging trend of the role of machine learning- and artificial intelligence-based approaches in identifying and preventing domestic violence. However, we argue that little recommendation is available to professionals about how to use these approaches in a responsible way, and that the smartness of high-tech technologies is often challenged by basic-level technologies from perpetrators, creating an imbalance that also limits an impactful development of a comprehensive socio-technical regime that serves the safety and resilience of families in their communal setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Novitzky
- Department of Engineering – STEaPP, PETRAS National Centre of Excellence for IoT Systems Cybersecurity, University College London, United Kingdom
- Avans University of Applied Sciences, Breda, the Netherlands
| | - Janine Janssen
- Avans University of Applied Sciences, Breda, the Netherlands
- Open University of the Netherlands, Heerlen, the Netherlands
- Police Academy of the Netherlands, Apeldoorn, the Netherlands
| | - Ben Kokkeler
- Avans University of Applied Sciences, Breda, the Netherlands
- University of Twente, Department of Science, Technology and Policy Studies, the Netherlands
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Yirgu R, Wondimagegnehu A, Qian J, Milkovich R, Zimmerman LA, Decker MR, Glass N, Seid F, Zekarias L, Wood SN. Needs and unmet needs for support services for recently pregnant intimate partner violence survivors in Ethiopia during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:725. [PMID: 37081421 PMCID: PMC10117258 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15634-7] [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: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, 2-14% of women experience intimate partner violence (IPV) during pregnancy. Timely response to IPV is critical to mitigate related adverse health outcomes. Barriers to accessing limited IPV support services are pervasive in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), such as Ethiopia; key barriers include mistrust, stigmatization, and self-blame, and discourage women from disclosing their experiences. Infection control measures for COVID-19 have the potential to further disrupt access to IPV services. METHODS In-depth qualitative interviews were undertaken from October-November 2020 with 24 women who experienced IPV during recent pregnancy to understand the needs and unmet needs of IPV survivors in Ethiopia amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Trained qualitative interviewers used a structured note-taking tool to allow probing of experiences, while permitting rapid analysis for timely results. Inductive thematic analysis identified emergent themes, which were organized into matrices for synthesis. RESULTS Qualitative themes center around knowledge of IPV services; experiences of women in seeking services; challenges in accessing services; the impact of COVID-19 on resource access; and persistent unmet needs of IPV survivors. Notably, few women discussed the violence they experienced as unique to pregnancy, with most referring to IPV over an extended period, both prior to and during COVID-19 restrictions. The majority of IPV survivors in our study heavily relied on their informal network of family and friends for protection and assistance in resolving the violence. Though formal IPV services remained open throughout the pandemic, restrictions resulted in the perception that services were not available, and this perception discouraged survivors from seeking help. Survivors further identified lack of integrated and tailored services as enduring unmet needs. CONCLUSIONS Results reveal a persistent low awareness and utilization of formal IPV support and urge future policy efforts to address unmet needs through expansion of services by reducing socio-cultural barriers. COVID-19 impacted access to both formal and informal support systems, highlighting needs for adaptable, remote service delivery and upstream violence prevention. Public health interventions must strengthen linkages between formal and informal resources to fill the unmet needs of IPV survivors in receiving medical, psychosocial, and legal support in their home communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robel Yirgu
- Addis Ababa University School of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Jiage Qian
- Department of Population Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rachel Milkovich
- Department of Population Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Linnea A Zimmerman
- Department of Population Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michele R Decker
- Department of Population Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nancy Glass
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Global Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Fatuma Seid
- Ethiopia Federal Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Lensa Zekarias
- Ethiopia Federal Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Shannon N Wood
- Department of Population Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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11
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Crawford AD, Hutson TS, Kim M. Mobile Health Applications Addressing Health Disparities for Women on Community Supervision: A Scoping Review. Subst Use Misuse 2023; 58:765-779. [PMID: 36924060 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2188414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile health applications have gained popularity in assisting high-risk, hard-to-reach groups in self-management of health conditions. One such population with high rates of health disparities comprises women under community supervision. In this review, we examine the literature on mHealth applications to address health disparities among women under community supervision. METHODS We searched CINAHL, PubMed, and PsycInfo for peer-reviewed research articles conducted in the U.S. After removal of duplicates, review of 231 article titles and abstracts and 36 articles for full-text review yielded five articles for analysis. Extracted data include author, year, design, sample, objectives, conclusions, measures, interventions and analytic approach. RESULTS Of the five studies that addressed health disparities of individuals under community supervision, one was done with participants on probation, four with participants on medication therapy for substance use disorder, and one with participants in a drug court program. Only one article was specific to women or controlled for ethnicity. No studies were done with those on parole. None done with populations outside the U.S. CONCLUSION Few studies focused on health disparities of women under community supervision. mHealth applications that address substance use, reproductive and sexual health, and safety issues specific to women under community supervision are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tara S Hutson
- The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Miyong Kim
- The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, Austin, Texas, USA
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12
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Mehr JB, Bennett ER, Price JL, de Souza NL, Buckman JF, Wilde EA, Tate DF, Marshall AD, Dams-O'Connor K, Esopenko C. Intimate partner violence, substance use, and health comorbidities among women: A narrative review. Front Psychol 2023; 13:1028375. [PMID: 36778165 PMCID: PMC9912846 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1028375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV), including physical, sexual, and psychological violence, aggression, and/or stalking, impacts overall health and can have lasting mental and physical health consequences. Substance misuse is common among individuals exposed to IPV, and IPV-exposed women (IPV-EW) are at-risk for transitioning from substance misuse to substance use disorder (SUD) and demonstrate greater SUD symptom severity; this too can have lasting mental and physical health consequences. Moreover, brain injury is highly prevalent in IPV-EW and is also associated with risk of substance misuse and SUD. Substance misuse, mental health diagnoses, and brain injury, which are highly comorbid, can increase risk of revictimization. Determining the interaction between these factors on the health outcomes and quality of life of IPV-EW remains a critical need. This narrative review uses a multidisciplinary perspective to foster further discussion and research in this area by examining how substance use patterns can cloud identification of and treatment for brain injury and IPV. We draw on past research and the knowledge of our multidisciplinary team of researchers to provide recommendations to facilitate access to resources and treatment strategies and highlight intervention strategies capable of addressing the varied and complex needs of IPV-EW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline B. Mehr
- School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University – New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Esther R. Bennett
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University - New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Julianne L. Price
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Rutgers University - New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ, United States,Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers University - New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Nicola L. de Souza
- School of Graduate Studies, Biomedical Sciences, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, NJ, United States,Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences, School of Health Professions, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, NJ, United States,Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jennifer F. Buckman
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Rutgers University - New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ, United States,Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers University - New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Elisabeth A. Wilde
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States,George E. Wahlen, VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System, Research Care Line, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - David F. Tate
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States,George E. Wahlen, VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System, Research Care Line, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Amy D. Marshall
- Department of Psychology, College of the Liberal Arts, The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, United States
| | - Kristen Dams-O'Connor
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States,Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Carrie Esopenko
- Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences, School of Health Professions, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, NJ, United States,Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States,*Correspondence: Carrie Esopenko,
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13
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Philbrick W, Milnor J, Deshmukh M, Mechael P. Information and communications technology use to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence in low- and middle-income countries: An evidence and gap map. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2022; 18:e1277. [PMID: 36908839 PMCID: PMC9595343 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of information and communications technologies (ICT) in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) has increased significantly in the last several years, particularly in health, including related areas such as preventing and responding to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) against women and children. While the evidence for ICT effectiveness has grown significantly in the past 5 years in other aspects of health, it has not for effectiveness of using ICT for the prevention and response to SGBV against women and children in LMIC. OBJECTIVES The primary goal of this evidence and gap map (EGM) is to establish a baseline for the state of the evidence connected with the use of ICT for preventing and responding to SGBV against women and children in LMIC. Objectives that contribute to the achievement of this goal are: (1)identifying evidence of effectiveness for the use of ICT targeting the prevention of, and response to, SGBV against women and children in LMIC;(2)identifying key gaps in the available ICT for SGBV prevention and/or response evidence;(3)identifying research methodology issues reflected in the current evidence;(4)identifying any clusters of evidence in one or more ICT interventions suitable for systematic review;(5)identifying enabling factors associated with effective interventions using ICT for the prevention of, and response to, SGBV against women and children in LMIC; and(6)providing a structured and accessible guide to stakeholders for future investment into interventions and research using ICT for SGBV prevention and response in LMIC. SEARCH METHODS The date of the last search from which records were evaluated, and any studies identified were incorporated into the EGM was July 11, 2021. Twenty (20) databases were searched, and identified under "Methods." SELECTION CRITERIA We conducted systematic searches of multiple academic databases using search terms and criteria related to the use of ICT for prevention and/or response to SGBV against women and children. Although excluded, we did consider studies conducted in higher-income countries (HIC) only to provide context and contrast for the EGM discussion of the eligible studies from LMIC. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS The EGM search process included five phases: (1) initial search of academic databases conducted by two researchers simultaneously; (2) comparison of search results, and abstract screening by two researchers collaboratively; (3) second screening by reviewing full articles of the studies identified in the first screening by two reviewers independently; (4) comparison of results of second screening; resolution of discrepancies of screening results; and (5) data extraction and analysis. MAIN RESULTS The EGM includes 10 studies published in English of which 4 were systematic, literature or scoping reviews directly addressing some aspect of the use of ICT for SGBV prevention and/or response in women and girls. The six individual studies were, or are being, conducted in LMIC (a condition for eligibility). No eligible studies addressed children as a target group, although a number of the ineligible studies reported on the use of ICT for intermediate outcomes connected with violence against children (e.g., digital parenting). Yet, such studies did not explicitly attach those intermediate outcomes to SGBV prevention or response outcomes. Countries represented among the eligible individual studies include Cambodia, Kenya, Nepal Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Lebanon. Of the 10 eligible studies (individual and reviews), most focused on intimate partner violence against women (IPV). Intervention areas among the eligible studies include safety planning using decision algorithms, educational and empowerment messaging regarding norms and attitudes towards gender-based violence (GBV), multi-media radio drama for social behavior change, the collection of survivor experience to inform SGBV/GBV services, and the collection of forensic evidence connected to the perpetration of SGBV. Thirty-one studies which otherwise would have been eligible for the evidence and gap map (EGM) were conducted in HIC (identified under "Excluded Reviews"). None of the eligible studies reported results related to effectiveness of using ICT in a control setting, for the primary prevention of SGBV as an outcome, but rather reported on outcomes such as usability, secondary and tertiary prevention, feasibility, access to services and other outcomes primarily relating to the development of the interventions. Two studies identified IPV prevention as a measurable outcome within their protocols, but one of these had not yet formally published results regarding primary prevention as an outcome. The other study, while reporting on the protocol (and steps to adapt the ICT application, previously reported as effective in HIC contexts to a specific LMIC context), has not yet as of the date of writing this EGM, published outcome results related to the reduction of IPV. Of the four reviews identified as eligible, two are better characterized as either a literature review or case study rather than as traditional systematic reviews reporting on impact outcomes with methodologically rigorous protocols. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The evidence baseline for using ICT to prevent and/or respond to SGBV against women and children in LMIC is nascent. Promising areas for future study include: (1) how ICT can contribute changing gender and social norms related to SGBV and primary prevention; (2) mobile phone applications that promote safety and security; (3) mobile technology for the collection and analysis of survivors' experience with SGBV response services; and (4) digital tools that support the collection of forensic evidence for SGBV response and secondary prevention. Most striking is the paucity of eligible studies examining the use of ICT in connection with preventing or responding to SGBV against children. In light of the exponential increase in the use of ICT by children and adolescents, even in LMIC, greater attention should be given to examining how ICT can be used during adolescence to address gender norms that lead to SGBV. While there appears to be interest in using ICT for SGBV prevention and/or response in LMIC, other than several ad hoc studies, there is little evidence of if, and how effective these interventions are. Further inquiry should be made regarding if and how interventions proven effective in HIC can be adapted to LMIC contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Philbrick
- Sitara InternationalAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
- Health, Equity and Rights, CAREAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Jacob Milnor
- Oswaldo Cruz FoundationOswaldo Cruz InstituteRio de JaneiroBrazil
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14
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Decker MR, Wood SN, Thomas HL, Thiongo M, Guiella G, Fiacre B, Onadja Y, Gichangi P. Violence against women from partners and other household members during COVID-19 in Burkina Faso and Kenya. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1857. [PMID: 36195851 PMCID: PMC9532234 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14197-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Global evidence indicates increases in gender-based violence (GBV) during the COVID-19 pandemic following mitigation measures, such as stay at home orders. Indirect effects of the pandemic, including income loss, strained social support, and closed or inaccessible violence response services, may further exacerbate GBV and undermine help-seeking. In Kenya and Burkina Faso, as in many settings, GBV was prevalent prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies specific to COVID-impact on GBV in Kenya indicate mixed results and there remains a lack of evidence from Burkina Faso. Our study takes a comprehensive lens by addressing both intimate partner violence (IPV) and non-partner household abuse through the COVID-19 pandemic in two priority settings. Methods Annual, national cross-sections of women ages 15–49 completed survey data collection in November–December 2020 and December 2020–March 2021; the GBV module was limited to one woman per household [Kenya n = 6715; Burkina n = 4065]. Descriptive statistics, Venn diagrams, and logistic and multinomial regression characterized prevalence of IPV and other household abuse, frequency relative to the COVID-19 pandemic, help-seeking behaviors, and predictors of IPV and household abuse across the socioecological framework. Results In both settings, past-year IPV prevalence exceeded non-partner household abuse (Kenya: 23.5%IPV, 11.0%household; Burkina Faso: 25.7%IPV, 16.2%household). Over half of those affected in each setting did not seek help; those that did turned first to family. Among those with past-year experiences, increased frequency since COVID-19 was noted for IPV (16.0%Burkina Faso; 33.6%Kenya) and household violence (14.3%Burkina Faso; 26.2%Kenya). Both context-specific (i.e., financial autonomy in Burkina Faso) and universal (i.e., COVID-related income loss) risk factors emerged. Conclusion Past-year IPV and household violence against women in Kenya and Burkina Faso were prevalent, and in some cases, intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Across settings, help-seeking from formal services was notably low, likely reflecting shame, blame, and stigmatization identified as barriers in pre-COVID literature. Both primary prevention and survivor-centered support services, including those related to economic empowerment, should be integrated within COVID-recovery efforts, and extended into the post-pandemic period to fully meet women’s safety needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele R Decker
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, E4142, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA. .,Bill & Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Shannon N Wood
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, E4142, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Bill & Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Haley L Thomas
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, E4142, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Mary Thiongo
- International Centre for Reproductive Health-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Georges Guiella
- Institut Supérieur des Sciences de la Population (ISSP/Université Joseph Ki-Zerbo), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Bazie Fiacre
- Institut Supérieur des Sciences de la Population (ISSP/Université Joseph Ki-Zerbo), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Yentéma Onadja
- Institut Supérieur des Sciences de la Population (ISSP/Université Joseph Ki-Zerbo), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Peter Gichangi
- International Centre for Reproductive Health-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya.,Technical University of Mombasa, Mombasa, Kenya.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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15
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Emezue C, Chase JD, Udmuangpia T, Bloom TL. Technology-based and digital interventions for intimate partner violence: A systematic review and meta-analysis. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2022; 18:e1271. [PMID: 36909881 PMCID: PMC9419475 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing body of research shows the promise and efficacy of technology-based or digital interventions in improving the health and well-being of survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). In addition, mental health comorbidities such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression occur three to five times more frequently in survivors of IPV than non-survivors, making these comorbidities prominent targets of technology-based interventions. Still, research on the long-term effectiveness of these interventions in reducing IPV victimization and adverse mental health effects is emergent. The significant increase in the number of trials studying technology-based therapies on IPV-related outcomes has allowed us to quantify the effectiveness of such interventions for mental health and victimization outcomes in survivors. This meta-analysis and systematic review provide critical insight from several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the overall short and long-term impact of technology-based interventions on the health and well-being of female IPV survivors. OBJECTIVES To synthesize current evidence on the effects of technology-based or digital interventions on mental health outcomes (depression, anxiety, and PTSD) and victimization outcomes (physical, psychological, and sexual abuse) among IPV survivors. SEARCH METHODS We examined multiple traditional and grey databases for studies published from 2007 to 2021. Traditional databases (such as PubMed Central, Web of Science, CINAHL Plus, and PsychINFO) and grey databases were searched between April 2019 and February 2021. In addition, we searched clinical trial registries, government repositories, and reference lists. Authors were contacted where additional data was needed. We identified 3210 studies in traditional databases and 1257 from grey literature. Over 2198 studies were determined to be duplicates and eliminated, leaving 64 studies after screening titles and abstracts. Finally, 17 RCTs were retained for meta-analysis. A pre-registered protocol was developed and published before conducting this meta-analysis. SELECTION CRITERIA We included RCTs targeting depression, anxiety, PTSD outcomes, and victimization outcomes (physical, sexual, and psychological violence) among IPV survivors using a technology-based intervention. Eligible RCTs featured a well-defined control group. There were no study restrictions based on participant gender, study setting, or follow-up duration. Included studies additionally supplied outcome data for calculating effect sizes for our desired outcome. Studies were available in full text and published between 2007 and 2021 in English. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We extracted relevant data and coded eligible studies. Using Cochrane's RevMan software, summary effect sizes (Outcome by Time) were assessed using an independent fixed-effects model. Standardized mean difference (SMD) effect sizes (or Cohen's d) were evaluated using a Type I error rate and an alpha of 0.05. The overall intervention effects were analyzed using the Z-statistic with a p-value of 0.05. Cochran's Q test and Higgins' I 2 statistics were utilized to evaluate and confirm the heterogeneity of each cumulative effect size. The Cochrane risk of bias assessment for randomized trials (RoB 2) was used to assess the quality of the studies. Campbell Systematic Reviews registered and published this study's protocol in January 2021. No exploratory moderator analysis was conducted; however, we report our findings with and without outlier studies in each meta-analysis. MAIN RESULTS Pooled results from 17 RCTs yielded 18 individual effect size comparisons among 4590 survivors (all females). Survivors included college students, married couples, substance-using women in community prisons, pregnant women, and non-English speakers, and sample sizes ranged from 15 to 672. Survivors' ages ranged from 19 to 41.5 years. Twelve RCTs were conducted in the United States and one in Canada, New Zealand, China (People's Republic of), Kenya, and Australia. The results of this meta-analysis found that technology-based interventions significantly reduced depression among female IPV survivors at 0-3 months only (SMD = -0.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.17 to -0.00), anxiety among IPV survivors at 0-3 months (SMD = -0.27, 95% CI = -0.42 to -0.13, p = 0.00, I 2 = 25%), and physical violence victimization among IPV survivors at 0-6 months (SMD = -0.22, 95% CI = -0.38 to -0.05). We found significant reductions in psychological violence victimization at 0-6 months (SMD = -0.34, 95% CI = -0.47 to -0.20) and at >6 months (SMD = -0.29, 95% CI = -0.39 to -0.18); however, at both time points, there were outlier studies. At no time point did digital interventions significantly reduce PTSD (SMD = -0.04, 95% CI = -0.14 to 0.06, p = .46, I 2 = 0%), or sexual violence victimization (SMD = -0.02, 95% CI = -0.14 to 0.11, I 2 = 21%) among female IPV survivors for all. With outlier studies removed from our analysis, all summary effect sizes were small, and this small number of comparisons prevented moderator analyses. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The results of this meta-analysis are promising. Our findings highlight the effectiveness of IPV-mitigating digital intervention as an add-on (not a replacement) to traditional modalities using a coordinated response strategy. Our findings contribute to the current understanding of "what works" to promote survivors' mental health, safety, and well-being. Future research could advance the science by identifying active intervention ingredients, mapping out intervention principles/mechanisms of action, best modes of delivery, adequate dosage levels using the treatment intensity matching process, and guidelines to increase feasibility and acceptability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuka Emezue
- Department of Women, Children and Family NursingRush University College of NursingChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Jo‐Ana D. Chase
- Sinclair School of NursingUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Tipparat Udmuangpia
- Department of Maternal‐Child Health and MidwiferyBoromarajonani College of NursingKhon KaenThailand
| | - Tina L. Bloom
- School of NursingNotre Dame of Maryland UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
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Signorelli MC, Costa da Silva VL, Evans DP, Prado SM, Glass N. Feasibility of an Online-Based Safety Decision Aid for Brazilian Women Living with Intimate Partner Violence: Findings from Participatory-Action Research in a One Stop Center. JOURNAL OF FAMILY VIOLENCE 2022; 38:433-446. [PMID: 35601758 PMCID: PMC9113623 DOI: 10.1007/s10896-022-00409-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a challenge in Brazil; the country is ranked 6th globally for femicide and one in four women experience physical and/or sexual IPV in their lifetimes. Safety decision aids (SDA) are tools for women experiencing IPV. Building upon previously developed and tested online SDA tools, we intend to adapt an SDA tool for use in Brazil. The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility of a technology-based SDA to support Brazilian women living with IPV, tailored for the Brazilian context. Our participatory-action research approach built upon research between 2018 and 2019 at the House of the Brazilian Woman (HBW) of Curitiba, Brazil, a cross-sectoral one-stop center (OSC) providing comprehensive care for IPV survivors. Field research included observation, field notes, and in-depth interviews with twenty-eight (n = 28) participants (HBW staff and survivors). The results were grouped into four main thematic categories: advantages; uncertainties; barriers; and suggestions. The triangulated results showed that the majority of participants considered the SDA feasible, highlighting flexibility and confidentiality; information about IPV; and access to resources for formal help-seeking as advantages of the tool. Participants also expressed uncertainties about SDA's ability to increase women's safety and its accessibility for the most vulnerable. They made suggestions for improvement to meet the unique needs of Brazilian women. This study provided evidence on the potential of an SDA tailored for use within a comprehensive program of women survivors in Brazil. This step was crucial to inform the future implementation and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Claudio Signorelli
- Chamber of Public Health, Federal University of Paraná, Rua Jaguariaíva, 512, Matinhos, PR 83260-000 Brazil
| | - Vera Lucia Costa da Silva
- Post-Graduation in Sustainable Territorial Development, Federal University of Paraná, Rua Jaguariaíva, 512, Matinhos, PR 83260-000 Brazil
| | - Dabney P. Evans
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30322 USA
| | - Sandra Marques Prado
- House of the Brazilian Woman of Curitiba, Av. Paraná, 870, Curitiba, PR 80035-130 Brazil
| | - Nancy Glass
- Johns Hopkins Center for Global Health, Johns Hopkins University, 415 N Washington St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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17
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Wood SN, Yirgu R, Wondimagegnehu A, Qian J, Milkovich RM, Decker MR, Glass N, Seid F, Zekarias L, Zimmerman LA. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on intimate partner violence during pregnancy: evidence from a multimethods study of recently pregnant women in Ethiopia. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055790. [PMID: 35414554 PMCID: PMC9006189 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This multimethods study aimed to: (1) compare the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) during pregnancy pre-COVID-19 and during the COVID-19 pandemic using quantitative data and (2) contextualise pregnant women's IPV experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic through supplemental interviews. DESIGN Quantitative analyses use data from Performance Monitoring for Action-Ethiopia, a cohort of 2868 pregnant women that collects data at pregnancy, 6 weeks, 6 months and 1-year postpartum. Following 6-week postpartum survey, in-depth semistructured interviews contextualised experiences of IPV during pregnancy with a subset of participants (n=24). PARTICIPANTS All pregnant women residing within six regions of Ethiopia, covering 91% of the population, were eligible for the cohort study (n=2868 completed baseline survey). Quantitative analyses were restricted to the 2388 women with complete 6-week survey data (retention=82.7%). A purposive sampling frame was used to select qualitative participants on baseline survey data, with inclusion criteria specifying completion of quantitative 6-week interview after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and indication of IPV experience. INTERVENTIONS A State of Emergency in Ethiopia was declared in response to the COVID-19 pandemic approximately halfway through 6-week postpartum interview, enabling a natural experiment (n=1405 pre-COVID-19; n=983 during-COVID-19). PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES IPV during pregnancy was assessed via the 10-item Revised Conflict and Tactics Scale. RESULTS 1-in-10 women experienced any IPV during pregnancy prior to COVID-19 (10.5%), and prevalence of IPV during pregnancy increased to 15.1% during the COVID-19 pandemic (aOR=1.51; p=0.02). Stratified by residence, odds of IPV during the pandemic increased for urban women only (aOR=2.09; p=0.03), however, IPV prevalence was higher in rural regions at both time points. Qualitative data reveal COVID-19-related stressors, namely loss of household income and increased time spent within the household, exacerbated IPV. CONCLUSIONS These multimethods results highlight the prevalent, severe violence that pregnant Ethiopian women experience, with pandemic-related increases concentrated in urban areas. Integration of IPV response and safety planning across the continuum of care can mitigate impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon N Wood
- Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Robel Yirgu
- Addis Ababa University School of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Jiage Qian
- Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rachel Mait Milkovich
- Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michele R Decker
- Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Nancy Glass
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Global Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Fatuma Seid
- Ethiopia Federal Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Lensa Zekarias
- Ethiopia Federal Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Linnea A Zimmerman
- Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Fernández López R, de-León-de-León S, Martin-de-Las-Heras S, Torres Cantero JC, Megías JL, Zapata-Calvente AL. Women survivors of intimate partner violence talk about using e-health during pregnancy: a focus group study. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:98. [PMID: 35361190 PMCID: PMC8968779 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01669-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pregnancy is a period of particular vulnerability to experience intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW). eHealth strategies have been implemented to identify women exposed to IPVAW and to combat the abuse and empower them, but there is a lack of evidence on the use of these strategies among pregnant women. This work aims to identify the needs, concerns and preferences of survivors about the use of eHealth strategies to counsel and empower pregnant victims of IPVAW in antenatal care. Methods A focus group of six IPVAW survivors who had been pregnant was conducted and open questions about the use of eHealth strategies were asked. The session was recorded, transcribed and thematically analyzed. We identified three main themes: needs and worries of pregnant women experiencing IPVAW, key aspects of video counseling sessions and usefulness of safety planning apps. Results Women highlighted the relevant role of healthcare professionals—especially midwives—in the identification of IPVAW and the wellbeing of their children as one of the main concerns. They perceived video counseling and safety planning apps as valuable resources. The preferred contents for a video counseling intervention were awareness-raising of the situation, self-esteem and legal advice. They also proposed safety and pregnant-related aspects that should be taken into account in the design of the video counseling sessions and the safety planning app. Conclusions Video counseling sessions and safety planning apps are potentially useful tools to counsel and empower women who experience IPVAW during pregnancy. Midwives play a key role in this endeavor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Fernández López
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Campus de Cartuja S/N, 18011, Granada, Spain
| | - Sabina de-León-de-León
- Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Campus de Cartuja S/N, 18011, Granada, Spain.
| | - Stella Martin-de-Las-Heras
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain.,Malaga Biomedical Research Institute (IBIMA), University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | | | - Jesús L Megías
- Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Campus de Cartuja S/N, 18011, Granada, Spain
| | - Antonella Ludmila Zapata-Calvente
- Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Campus de Cartuja S/N, 18011, Granada, Spain.,Department of Social Psychology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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19
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Lwamba E, Shisler S, Ridlehoover W, Kupfer M, Tshabalala N, Nduku P, Langer L, Grant S, Sonnenfeld A, Anda D, Eyers J, Snilstveit B. Strengthening women's empowerment and gender equality in fragile contexts towards peaceful and inclusive societies: A systematic review and meta-analysis. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2022; 18:e1214. [PMID: 36913184 PMCID: PMC8904729 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Across the globe, gender disparities still exist with regard to equitable access to resources, participation in decision-making processes, and gender and sexual-based violence. This is particularly true in fragile and conflict-affected settings, where women and girls are affected by both fragility and conflict in unique ways. While women have been acknowledged as key actors in peace processes and post-conflict reconstruction (e.g., through the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 and the Women, Peace and Security Agenda) evidence on the effectiveness of gender-specific and gender-transformative interventions to improve women's empowerment in fragile and conflict-affected states and situations (FCAS) remains understudied. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this review was to synthesize the body of evidence around gender-specific and gender-transformative interventions aimed at improving women's empowerment in fragile and conflict-affected settings with high levels of gender inequality. We also aimed to identify barriers and facilitators that could affect the effectiveness of these interventions and to provide implications for policy, practice and research designs within the field of transitional aid. METHODS We searched for and screened over 100,000 experimental and quasi-experimental studies focused on FCAS at the individual and community levels. We used standard methodological procedures outlined by the Campbell Collaboration for the data collection and analysis, including quantitative and qualitative analyses, and completed the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) methodology to assess the certainty around each body of evidence. RESULTS We identified 104 impact evaluations (75% randomised controlled trials) assessing the effects of 14 different types of interventions in FCAS. About 28% of included studies were assessed as having a high risk of bias (45% among quasi-experimental designs). Interventions supporting women's empowerment and gender equality in FCAS produced positive effects on the outcomes related to the primary focus of the intervention. There are no significant negative effects of any included interventions. However, we observe smaller effects on behavioural outcomes further along the causal chain of empowerment. Qualitative syntheses indicated that gender norms and practices are potential barriers to intervention effectiveness, while working with local powers and institutions can facilitate the uptake and legitimacy of interventions. CONCLUSIONS We observe gaps of rigorous evidence in certain regions (notably MENA and Latin America) and in interventions specifically targeting women as actors of peacebuilding. Gender norms and practices are important elements to consider in programme design and implementation to maximise potential benefits: focusing on empowerment only might not be enough in the absence of targeting the restrictive gender norms and practices that may undermine intervention effectiveness. Lastly, programme designers and implementation should consider explicitly targeting specific empowerment outcomes, promoting social capital and exchange, and tailoring the intervention components to the desired empowerment-related outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etienne Lwamba
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie)LondonUK
| | - Shannon Shisler
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie)LondonUK
| | | | - Meital Kupfer
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie)LondonUK
| | | | - Promise Nduku
- Africa Centre for EvidenceUniversity of JohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Laurenz Langer
- Africa Centre for EvidenceUniversity of JohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Sean Grant
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie)LondonUK
- Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public HealthIndiana UniversityIndianapolisIndiana
| | - Ada Sonnenfeld
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie)LondonUK
| | - Daniela Anda
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie)LondonUK
| | - John Eyers
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie)LondonUK
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20
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Decker MR, Bevilacqua K, Wood SN, Ngare GW, Thiongo M, Byrne ME, Williams A, Devoto B, Glass N, Heise L, Gichangi P. Gender-based violence during COVID-19 among adolescent girls and young women in Nairobi, Kenya: a mixed-methods prospective study over 18 months. BMJ Glob Health 2022; 7:bmjgh-2021-007807. [PMID: 35210310 PMCID: PMC8882641 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-007807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) disproportionately experience gender-based violence (GBV), which can increase during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A cohort of youth ages 15-24 in Nairobi, Kenya was surveyed at three time points over an 18-month period prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic: June-August 2019 (prepandemic), August-October 2020 (12-month follow-up) and May 2021 (18-month follow-up). We characterise (1) prevalence, relative timing and help-seeking for leading forms of GBV, (2) GBV trajectories over 18 months and (3) associations of individual, dyad and COVID-related factors on GBV trajectories among AGYW (n=612) in Nairobi, Kenya. Virtual focus group discussions (n=12) and interviews (n=40) contextualise quantitative results. RESULTS Intimate partner violence (IPV) prevalence hovered at 17% across time points (ever at pre-pandemic; past 12 months at 12-month follow-up (2020); past 6 months at 18-month follow-up (2021)); non-partner sexual violence (SV) was 3% at 12-month and 18-month follow-up. Overall, 27.6% of AGYW experienced IPV during the pandemic. IPV during the pandemic was associated with work as the primary pre-COVID activity, low social support and partner age difference >4 years. Among AGYW partnered at all three time points, 66.2% stayed IPV-free (no IPV), 9.2% saw IPV resolve by 18-month follow-up, while 11.1% had IPV start and 13.6% experienced intermittent IPV. Help-seeking for IPV and SV in 2020 (11.1% and 4.6%, respectively) increased to 21.7% and 15.1%, respectively, by 2021. Qualitative results speak to impacts of curfews, and pandemic-related financial stress in prompting conflict and threatening traditional gender roles, and underlying conditions that enable IPV. CONCLUSION The persistence of IPV against AGYW in Nairobi prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic reflects endemic conditions and pandemic-specific stressors. Youth, including unmarried youth, remain a priority population for GBV prevention and survivor-centred response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele R Decker
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA .,Bill and Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kristin Bevilacqua
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shannon N Wood
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Bill and Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Grace Wamue Ngare
- Department of Sociology, Gender and Development Studies, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya.,Women's Economic Empowerment Hub, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mary Thiongo
- International Centre for Reproductive Health Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Meagan E Byrne
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Bill and Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Anaise Williams
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Bianca Devoto
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Nancy Glass
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lori Heise
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Peter Gichangi
- International Centre for Reproductive Health Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent, Belgium
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21
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Draughon Moret J, Todd A, Rose L, Pollitt E, Anderson J. Mobile Phone Apps for Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Prevention and Response: Systematic Search on App Stores. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e28959. [PMID: 35133285 PMCID: PMC8864520 DOI: 10.2196/28959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Since the 2008 advent of the smartphone, more than 180 billion copies of apps have been downloaded from Apple App Store, with more than 2.6 million apps available for Android and 2.2 million apps available for iOS. Many violence prevention and response apps have been developed as part of this app proliferation. Objective This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and quality of freely available mobile phone apps targeting intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual violence (SV) prevention and response. Methods We conducted a systematic search of violence prevention and response mobile phone apps freely available in Apple App Store (iOS; March 2016) and Google Play Store (Android; July 2016). Search terms included violence prevention, sexual assault, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, sexual violence, forensic nursing, wife abuse, and rape. Apps were included for review if they were freely available, were available in English, and had a primary purpose of prevention of or response to SV or IPV regardless of app target end users. Results Using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS), we evaluated a total of 132 unique apps. The majority of included apps had a primary purpose of sharing information or resources. Included apps were of low-to-moderate quality, with the overall subjective quality mean for the reviewed apps being 2.65 (95% CI 2.58-2.72). Quality scores for each of the 5 MARS categories ranged from 2.80 (engagement) to 4.75 (functionality). An incidental but important finding of our review was the difficulty in searching for apps and the plethora of nonrelated apps that appear when searching for keywords such as “rape” and “domestic violence” that may be harmful to people seeking help. Conclusions Although there are a variety of mobile apps available designed to provide information or other services related to SV and IPV, they range greatly in quality. They are also challenging to find, given the current infrastructure of app store searches, keyword prioritization, and highlighting based on user rating. It is important for providers to be aware of these resources and be knowledgeable about how to review and recommend mobile phone apps to patients, when appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Draughon Moret
- Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Angela Todd
- Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Lauren Rose
- College of Nursing, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
| | - Erin Pollitt
- District of Columbia Forensic Nurse Examiners, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Jocelyn Anderson
- College of Nursing, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
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22
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Decker MR, Wood SN, Byrne ME, Yao-N’dry N, Thiongo M, Gichangi P, M. OlaOlorun F, Koffi AK, Radloff S, Ahmed S, O. Tsui A. Gendered power dynamics and threats to sexual and reproductive autonomy among adolescent girls and young adult women: A cross-sectional survey in three urban settings. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257009. [PMID: 34843466 PMCID: PMC8629179 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gendered economic and social systems can enable relational power disparities for adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), and undercut autonomy to negotiate sex and contraceptive use. Less is known about their accumulation and interplay. This study characterizes relationship power imbalances (age disparity, intimate partner violence [IPV], partner-related fear, transactional sex, and transactional partnerships), and evaluates associations with modern contraceptive use, and sexual/reproductive autonomy threats (condom removal/"stealthing", reproductive coercion, ability to refuse sex, and contraceptive confidence). METHODS Cross-sectional surveys were conducted with unmarried, currently-partnered AGYW aged 15-24 recruited via respondent-driven sampling in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire (n = 555; 2018-19), Nairobi, Kenya (n = 332; 2019), and Lagos, Nigeria (n = 179; 2020). Descriptive statistics, Venn diagrams, and multivariate regression models characterized relationship power imbalances, and associations with reproductive autonomy threats and contraceptive use. FINDINGS Relationship power imbalances were complex and concurrent. In current partnerships, partner-related fears were common (50.4%Nairobi; 54.5%Abidjan; 55.7%Lagos) and physical IPV varied (14.5%Nairobi; 22.1%Abidjan; 9.6%Lagos). IPV was associated with reproductive coercion in Nairobi and Abidjan. Age disparate relationships undermined confidence in contraception in Nairobi. In Nairobi and Lagos, transactional sex outside the relationship was associated with condom stealthing. INTERPRETATION AGYW face simultaneous gendered power differentials, against the backdrop of gendered social and economic systems. Power imbalances were linked with coercive sexual/reproductive health experiences which are often underrecognized yet represent a potent link between gendered social systems and poor health. Pregnancy prevention efforts for AGYW must address reproductive autonomy threats, and the relational power imbalances and broader gendered systems that enable them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele R. Decker
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Shannon N. Wood
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Meagan E. Byrne
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Nathalie Yao-N’dry
- Association Ivoirienne pour le Bien-Etre Familial (AIBEF), Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Mary Thiongo
- International Centre for Reproductive Health-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peter Gichangi
- International Centre for Reproductive Health-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Alain K. Koffi
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Scott Radloff
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Saifuddin Ahmed
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Amy O. Tsui
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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Kirkwood EK, Clymer C, Imbulana K, Mozumder S, Dibley MJ, Alam NA. What role do mHealth interventions play in changing gender relations? A systematic review of qualitative findings. (Preprint). JMIR Hum Factors 2021; 9:e32330. [PMID: 35862143 PMCID: PMC9353673 DOI: 10.2196/32330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The rapid and widespread growth of mobile technologies in low- and middle-income countries can offer groundbreaking ways of disseminating public health interventions. However, gender-based inequalities present a challenge for women in accessing mobile technology. Research has shown that mobile health (mHealth) interventions can affect gender relations in both positive and negative ways; however, few mHealth programs use a gender-sensitive lens when designing, implementing, or analyzing programs. Objective This systematic review aims to identify and summarize the findings of qualitative research studies that explore the impact of mHealth interventions on gender relations as a result of participating in such initiatives in low- and middle-income countries. Methods We performed a systematic literature review to examine empirical evidence of changes in gender relations attributed to participation in an mHealth intervention in low- and middle-income countries. Peer-reviewed articles were included based on whether they evaluated an mHealth intervention and were published between 2013 and 2020. Articles using mHealth that solely targeted health workers, did not assess a specific intervention, used mobile technology for data collection only, or were formative or exploratory in nature were excluded. The search terms were entered into 4 key electronic databases—MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Scopus—generating a comprehensive list of potentially relevant peer-reviewed articles. Thematic analysis was used to identify, analyze, and report the themes that emerged from our data. Results Of the 578 full-text articles retrieved, 14 (2.4%) were eligible for inclusion in the study. None of the articles appraised gender from the outset. The articles uncovered findings on gender relations through the course of the intervention or postprogram evaluation. Most studies took place in sub-Saharan Africa, with the remainder in South and Southeast Asia. The articles focused on maternal and child health, HIV diagnosis and treatment, and reproductive health. This review found that mHealth programs could enhance spousal communication, foster emotional support between couples, improve women’s self-efficacy and autonomy in seeking health information and services, and increase their involvement in health-related decision-making. Despite the positive impacts, some mHealth interventions had an adverse effect, reinforcing the digital divide, upholding men as gatekeepers of information and sole decision-makers, and exacerbating relationship problems. Conclusions These results suggest that given the rapid and persistent upscale of mHealth interventions in low- and middle-income settings, it is imperative to design interventions that consider their impact on power dynamics and gender relations. Future research is needed to fill the evidence gaps on gender and mHealth, acknowledging that women are not passive beneficiaries and that they need to actively participate and be empowered by mHealth interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth K Kirkwood
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Michael J Dibley
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Neeloy Ashraful Alam
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
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