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Hallén M, Tryselius K. Health, human rights and freedom at stake? A critical discourse analysis of the Swedish media debate on the national COVID-19 pandemic strategy. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2024; 19:2387842. [PMID: 39113564 PMCID: PMC11312986 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2024.2387842] [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] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/11/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to, in the Swedish media debate, explore the discursive constructions of challenges in human rights and freedoms following the national spatial strategy for health and survival during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS The study, inspired by a critical discourse analytic approach, focused particularly on the issues addressed, subject positions, relations and rhetoric. Seventeen opinion articles published in Swedish national newspapers December 2019 - February 2022 were analysed. RESULTS The main contents were threats to democracy, threats to the freedom and rights of specific groups, and threats to the debate itself. Contents were expressed through three discourse dichotomies: contribution vs interjection, documented vs alarmistic, and active on the stage vs commenting from the balcony. CONCLUSIONS Striking about the results is the absence of dialogue, the one-way communication, and the absent politicians. It seems that the analysed debate on the challenges of the Swedish COVID-19 pandemic strategy, based on its impact on overall freedoms and rights, has not been the focus of decision-makers during the pandemic. They have neither addressed the threats highlighted in the articles, nor contributed to the discourse. This is worrying for the long-term maintenance and development of a healthy democracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Hallén
- School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
| | - Kristina Tryselius
- Department of Health and Caring Science, Linnaeus University, Linnaeus, Sweden
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Okyere J, Ayebeng C, Boateng ENK, Assie RAA, Odoi A, Dzirassah KD, Ankomahene B, Dickson KS. Spatial distribution and determinants of physical intimate partner violence among women in Kenya: Evidence from the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0309173. [PMID: 39208312 PMCID: PMC11361686 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0309173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite global, regional, and national efforts to address intimate partner violence (IPV), physical IPV persists as a significant challenge in Kenya. This study employs geospatial analysis to examine the spatial distribution and determinants of physical intimate partner violence among women, aiming to inform targeted interventions and policies. METHODS The study used a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional study design based on the 2022 Kenya demographic and health survey. Analyses were conducted using Stata version 17.0 and ArcMap version 10.8. Spatial autocorrelation and hotspot assessment were conducted in the geospatial analysis, while a multilevel logistic regression model was used to examine determinants of physical violence among reproductive-aged women. RESULTS The study found 28.8% (10,477) of the surveyed women reported experiencing physical intimate partner violence. The spatial analysis identified significant clusters in the southwest and central regions, with women in sub-counties like Chepaluugu, Konion, Sotik, Bumula, and Metayos among others experiencing more violence. Conversely, women in areas in the North East and South East corners such as Kisauni, Tarabaj, Waijir North, Lafey, and Mandera North and South among others showed little or no physical intimate partner violence. Multivariable logistic regression identified age, education, wealth index, partner domineering indicators, and justification of wife beating to be associated with physical intimate partner violence. Higher education and wealth were associated with lower violence odds, while partner domineering indicators and justification of wife beating increased odds. CONCLUSION Spatial variations in intimate partner violence risk for women in Kenya underscore the need for targeted government interventions. Focusing on hotspot regions, especially among women with the poorest wealth index, no formal education, and older age, is crucial. Implementing behavior change campaigns addressing violence justification and partner dominance is vital. Active involvement of male partners in programs aiming to eliminate intimate partner violence is essential for comprehensive impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Okyere
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Research and Advocacy, Challenging Heights, Winneba, Ghana
| | - Castro Ayebeng
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
- Department of Research and Advocacy, Challenging Heights, Winneba, Ghana
| | - Ebenezer N. K. Boateng
- Department of Geography and Regional Planning, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Rebecca A. A. Assie
- Department of Education and Psychology, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Amanda Odoi
- Centre for Gender Research, Advocacy and Documentation (CEGRAD), University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - King-David Dzirassah
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Bright Ankomahene
- Department of Geomatics Engineering, College of Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Leal WE, Iesue L, Moscrop-Blake K, Regalado J, Timmer A, González J. The Mediating Role of Problematic Alcohol Consumption on the Association Between Pandemic-Related Strains and Domestic Violence Across Six Countries. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024:8862605241271389. [PMID: 39189055 DOI: 10.1177/08862605241271389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Research has documented that domestic violence increased worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies have also suggested that alcohol use, which also increased during COVID-19, is a risk factor for domestic violence victimization. However, research has yet to examine whether alcohol consumption mediated the relationship between pandemic-related stressful events and domestic violence. Using structural equation modeling, the current study examines the impact of three types of pandemic-related strains (financial problems, familial problems, and work problems) on individual assessments about whether their drinking became problematic during the pandemic and then whether problematic alcohol use increases the risk of psychological and physical domestic violence. This model was analyzed across six countries: Ukraine, The Netherlands, Pakistan, Denmark, Guatemala, and the United States. Results indicate that the associations between pandemic-related strains and self-assessed problematic drinking varied by country. However, across all countries, problematic alcohol consumption was associated with increased physical and psychological domestic violence victimization. Overall, the findings of the current study support the use of programs that aim to reduce problematic consumption of alcohol with the hopes that they may, in turn, reduce psychological and physical domestic violence victimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanda E Leal
- Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX, USA
| | - Laura Iesue
- Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX, USA
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Iliyasu Z, Amole TG, Sunkani L, Nass NS, Kwaku AA, Umar AA, Abdullahi HM, Tsiga-Ahmed FI, Jibo AM, Bashir HA, Salihu HM, Aliyu MH. " As I dropped the phone, she slapped me for the first time": Experiences of intimate partner violence among Nigerian men during COVID-19 restrictions. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2024; 43:25067-25079. [PMID: 39257443 PMCID: PMC11386489 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-024-06135-w] [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] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
Limited literature exists on men's experiences with intimate partner violence (IPV) during the COVID-19 lockdown, especially in resource-constrained settings like Nigeria. We investigated the prevalence, risk factors, and lifetime experiences of IPV among men in Nigeria, during COVID-19 restrictions. Using a mixed methods design, we interviewed 420 married men with a structured questionnaire and conducted 20 in-depth interviews. Logistic regression and a framework approach were used for data analysis. Approximately 86.4% of respondents (n=363) experienced IPV at some point in their lifetime. The prevalence of IPV during the COVID-19 restrictions was 76.2% (n=320). Over a lifetime, verbal (67.4%), physical (78.1%), and sexual coercion (81.0%) were the most common forms of IPV. During the COVID-19 lockdown, the corresponding proportions were 48.6%, 69.5%, and 57.4%, respectively. Male- and female-perpetrated IPV over a lifetime (88.3% vs 87.6%) and during COVID-19 restrictions (88.3% vs 81.4%) were similar (p>0.05). Older age, non-Muslim religion, longer marital duration, partner's profession, and no formal education were associated with higher IPV risk. Home confinement, financial stress, childbirth, disrespect towards spouse's parents, emotional detachment, disputes about child discipline, and suspected infidelity contributed to IPV. Men's active involvement in family life, improved communication, and increased transparency emerged as protective factors. Our findings highlight the high rates of IPV during the pandemic, with men as both perpetrators and victims. Future epidemic preparedness plans should prioritize IPV prevention strategies that enhance partner communication, promote male involvement in family life, address the gender education gap, and provide support services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zubairu Iliyasu
- Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Taiwo G Amole
- Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
- African Center of Excellence for Population Health & Policy, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Lukman Sunkani
- Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Nafisa S Nass
- Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Aminatu A Kwaku
- Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Amina A Umar
- Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Abubakar M Jibo
- Department of Community Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Humayra A Bashir
- International Health and Tropical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Muktar H Aliyu
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Tennessee, USA
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Sheridan-Johnson J, Mumford E, Maitra P, Rothman EF. Perceived Impact of COVID-19 on Cyberabuse, Sexual Aggression, and Intimate Partner Violence Among U.S. Young Adults. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024; 39:3483-3507. [PMID: 38379202 DOI: 10.1177/08862605241233264] [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: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Quarantine guidelines that arose with the COVID-19 pandemic limited opportunities for social interaction, raising concerns about increases in intimate partner violence and cyberabuse while simultaneously restricting access to help. The current study assessed increases in cyberabuse, sexual aggression, and intimate partner violence victimization and perpetration during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in a U.S. nationally representative sample of young adults ages 18 to 35, recruited from a probability-based household panel. Data were collected between November 2020 and May 2021. Descriptive analyses were conducted to assess the prevalence of any self-reported increase in cyberabuse, sexual aggression, or intimate partner victimization or perpetration during the COVID-19 pandemic. Logistic regression models were run for each outcome measuring any increase compared to no increase. Approximately one in ten U.S. young adults ages 18 to 35 reported experiencing an increase in cyberabuse victimization (12.6%) and cyberabuse perpetration (8.9%) during the pandemic. Similar proportions were observed for increased sexual aggression victimization (11.8%) and perpetration (9.0%). More than one in five respondents (21.4%) reported that their intimate partner was more physically, sexually, or emotionally aggressive toward them during the pandemic. Conversely, 16.2% of respondents reported that they were more physically, sexually, or emotionally aggressive themselves toward an intimate partner, compared to their behavior before the onset of the pandemic. Having an intimate partner and staying at home more than usual during the pandemic were protective factors for both cyberabuse and sexual aggression victimization. Respondent age, education, and race and ethnicity were not associated with increased victimization or perpetration of cyberabuse or sexual aggression. However, women reported lower odds of increased sexual aggression perpetration than men. These findings improve understanding of changes to interpersonal abuse and associated risk factors during a period of social disruption.
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Juwono S, Flores Anato JL, Kirschbaum AL, Metheny N, Dvorakova M, Skakoon-Sparling S, Moore DM, Grace D, Hart TA, Lambert G, Lachowsky NJ, Jollimore J, Cox J, Maheu-Giroux M. Prevalence, Determinants, and Trends in the Experience and Perpetration of Intimate Partner Violence Among a Cohort of Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men in Montréal, Toronto, and Vancouver, Canada (2017-2022). LGBT Health 2024. [PMID: 38860358 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2023.0265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Longitudinal data on the experience and perpetration of intimate partner violence (IPV) among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) are limited. We estimated the prevalence of past 6-month (P6M) physical and/or sexual IPV (hereafter IPV) experience and perpetration, identified their determinants, and assessed temporal trends, including the impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic. Methods: We used data from the Engage Cohort Study (2017-2022) of GBM recruited using respondent-driven sampling in Montréal, Toronto, and Vancouver. Adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) for determinants and self-reported P6M IPV were estimated using generalized estimating equations, accounting for attrition (inverse probability of censoring weights) and relevant covariates. Longitudinal trends of IPV were also assessed. Results: Between 2017 and 2022, 1455 partnered GBM (median age 32 years, 82% gay, and 71% White) had at least one follow-up visit. At baseline, 31% of participants experienced IPV in their lifetime and 17% reported ever perpetrating IPV. During follow-up, IPV experience was more common (6%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 5%-7%) than perpetration (4%, 95% CI: 3%-5%). Factors associated with P6M IPV experience included prior IPV experience (aPR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.76-4.08), lower education (aPR: 2.31, 95% CI: 1.32-4.04), and substance use (injection aPR: 5.05, 95% CI: 2.54-10.05, non-injection aPR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.00-2.82). Similar factors were associated with IPV perpetration. IPV was stable over time; periods of COVID-19 restrictions were not associated with IPV changes in this cohort. Conclusion: Prevalence of IPV was high among GBM. Determinants related to marginalization were associated with an increased risk of IPV. Interventions should address these determinants to reduce IPV and improve health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Juwono
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Jorge Luis Flores Anato
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | | | - Nicholas Metheny
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Milada Dvorakova
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Canada
| | - Shayna Skakoon-Sparling
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
| | - David M Moore
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Daniel Grace
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Trevor A Hart
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Gilles Lambert
- Direction régionale de santé publique de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Nathan J Lachowsky
- School of Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
- Community Based Research Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jody Jollimore
- CATIE, Canadian AIDS Treatment Information Exchange, Toronto, Canada
| | - Joseph Cox
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Mathieu Maheu-Giroux
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
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Khurana B, Prakash J, Lewis-O'Connor A, Green W, Rexrode KM, Loder RT. Assault-related anoxia and neck injuries in US emergency departments. Inj Prev 2024; 30:188-193. [PMID: 38071575 PMCID: PMC11220620 DOI: 10.1136/ip-2023-045107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early identification of non-fatal strangulation in the context of intimate partner violence (IPV) is crucial due to its severe physical and psychological consequences for the individual experiencing it. This study investigates the under-reported and underestimated burden of IPV-related non-fatal strangulation by analysing assault-related injuries leading to anoxia and neck injuries. METHODS An IRB-exempt, retrospective review of prospectively collected data were performed using the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System All Injury Programme data from 2005 to 2019 for all assaults resulting in anoxia and neck injuries. The type and mechanism of assault injuries resulting in anoxia (excluding drowning, poisoning and aspiration), anatomical location of assault-related neck injuries and neck injury diagnosis by morphology, were analysed using statistical methods accounting for the weighted stratified nature of the data. RESULTS Out of a total of 24 493 518 assault-related injuries, 11.6% (N=2 842 862) resulted from IPV (defined as perpetrators being spouses/partners). Among 22 764 cases of assault-related anoxia, IPV accounted for 40.4%. Inhalation and suffocation were the dominant mechanisms (60.8%) of anoxia, with IPV contributing to 41.9% of such cases. Neck injuries represented only 3.0% of all assault-related injuries, with IPV accounting for 21% of all neck injuries and 31.9% of neck contusions. CONCLUSIONS The study reveals a significant burden of IPV-related anoxia and neck injuries, highlighting the importance of recognising IPV-related strangulation. Comprehensive screening for IPV should be conducted in patients with unexplained neck injuries, and all IPV patients should be screened for strangulation events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharti Khurana
- Trauma Imaging Research and Innovation Center, Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Women's Health, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jaya Prakash
- Trauma Imaging Research and Innovation Center, Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Annie Lewis-O'Connor
- Division of Women's Health, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - William Green
- The Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention, Shingle Springs, California, USA
| | - Kathryn M Rexrode
- Division of Women's Health, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Randall T Loder
- Orthopaedic Surgery, Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Qureshi MJ, Miller AP, Mugamba S, Kyasanku E, Nalugoda F, Bulamba RM, Kigozi G, Nakigozi G, Nkale J, Kato P, Nalwoga GK, Watya S, Wagman JA. Women's access to family planning and experiences of reproductive coercion during the COVID-19 lockdown in two districts of Uganda. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30216. [PMID: 38765155 PMCID: PMC11098776 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In March 2020, Uganda enforced country-wide restrictions to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2, categorizing some health services, including family planning (FP), as non-essential. Globally, similar COVID-19 restrictions have been associated with increased vulnerability to reproductive coercion (RC) among women, due to changes in FP service availability and restricted access by partners. This study aims to investigate these dynamics in Uganda, specifically examining the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on women's access to FP, their experiences of RC, and the relationship between RC and intimate partner violence (IPV). Methods We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of data from 960 women participating in the AMBSO Population Health Surveillance Study (APHS) between August 2020 and March 2021 across Wakiso (N = 164) and Hoima (N = 796) districts in Uganda. Our analysis focused on women who were sexually active in the past month, using bivariate analyses to explore the associations between RC and recent experiences of sexual, physical, and verbal IPV. Findings The most commonly reported FP methods were injectables (36.8 %) and implants (16 %). Despite the COVID-19 lockdown, less than one percent of participants reported an inability to access their preferred FP method. Notably, 3 % of the women experienced RC in the past 12 months. There was a significant association between RC and sexual IPV (p < 0.0001), as well as physical IPV (p < 0.0001). Instances of verbal IPV were observed to have tripled during the lockdown period. Interpretation An increase in verbal IPV was found among women during the COVID-19 lockdown. Additionally, a notable association emerged between other forms of IPV and an increased risk of RC. Despite the lockdown, access to FP remained high, which could be attributed to the prevalent use of long-acting FP methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mira J. Qureshi
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Amanda P. Miller
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Stephen Mugamba
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Plot 7441, Nansana, Hoima Road, Wakiso, P.O Box 37565 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Emmanuel Kyasanku
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Plot 7441, Nansana, Hoima Road, Wakiso, P.O Box 37565 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred Nalugoda
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Plot 7441, Nansana, Hoima Road, Wakiso, P.O Box 37565 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Robert Malyabe Bulamba
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Plot 7441, Nansana, Hoima Road, Wakiso, P.O Box 37565 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Godfrey Kigozi
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Plot 7441, Nansana, Hoima Road, Wakiso, P.O Box 37565 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gertrude Nakigozi
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Plot 7441, Nansana, Hoima Road, Wakiso, P.O Box 37565 Kampala, Uganda
| | - James Nkale
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Plot 7441, Nansana, Hoima Road, Wakiso, P.O Box 37565 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Phillip Kato
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Plot 7441, Nansana, Hoima Road, Wakiso, P.O Box 37565 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Grace Kigozi Nalwoga
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Plot 7441, Nansana, Hoima Road, Wakiso, P.O Box 37565 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Stephen Watya
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Plot 7441, Nansana, Hoima Road, Wakiso, P.O Box 37565 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jennifer A. Wagman
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Navarrete Zur S, Sesia PM. Differential Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence during COVID-19: A Cross-Regional Study in Mexico. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:331. [PMID: 38667127 PMCID: PMC11047592 DOI: 10.3390/bs14040331] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic brought on a marked increase in intimate partner violence (IPV) worldwide, Mexico being no exception. Factors that exacerbated gender-based violence (GBV) in the household during the pandemic include gendered loss of income, regression in access to social and legal justice resources, reversal to more traditional gender norms and roles, and increased alcoholism. While there are studies about the prevalence and determinants of IPV in rural and urban Mexico, there appears to be a lack of information regarding how these realities differed as they interacted with the compounding pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stemming from 10 ethnographic interviews with women across rural and urban localities of Oaxaca, Mexico City, and Mexico State, who were recruited from NGOs providing psychological and legal services against GBV, we analyze some factors associated with the prevalence of IPV during confinement. We conclude that all women in our study experienced IPV both before and during the pandemic, with variations in IPV patterns influenced by their rural or urban residence, socio-economic status, ethnic-racial identity, and proximity to the abuser's network. We also found that not all impacts were negative, rather COVID-19 measures had a paradoxical effect for some women where restrictions on geographical mobility and decrease in access to alcohol became pivotal protective factors. We recommend that public policymakers and civil society organizations alike pay attention to these differential challenges and benefits in their crisis responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Navarrete Zur
- COMEXUS Fulbright Research Scholarship Program at the Center for Research and Advanced Studies in Social Anthropology (CIESAS) Pacífico-Sur, Oaxaca 68024, Mexico
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Saenz NM, Tallman SD. Fracture variation in survivable versus fatal blunt force trauma associated with intimate partner violence. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 357:112000. [PMID: 38518565 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112000] [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] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a global human rights issue that affects approximately 25% of women and 10% of men and is the leading cause of homicides of women worldwide. Multiple interventional studies have been conducted to screen for IPV; however, fractures associated with intimate partner homicide (IPH) have not been studied from a forensic anthropological perspective. Therefore, this study uses computed tomography scans of IPH victims (n=33) obtained from the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator to 1) classify and quantify perimortem craniofacial blunt force fractures, and 2) compare the IPH-related fractures to those associated with non-lethal IPV using previously published studies. The results indicate that IPH cases presented similarly to non-lethal IPV cases in that they were concentrated on the middle and lower face, but fractures were more frequent in the upper face and cranial vault in IPH cases. While IPH cases showed more fractures, they were not necessarily associated with extensive fracturing, as 75.8% of IPH victims had five or fewer fractures-the most common being comminuted and linear fractures, comprising 93.8% of IPH-related fractures. As IPV is significantly underreported, understanding the nuances of fracture patterns associated with IPH can help to aid holistic forensic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Saenz
- Applied EarthWorks, Inc., 1391 West Shaw Avenue Fresno, CA 93711, USA; Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, 72 E. Concord St. L1004, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Sean D Tallman
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, 72 E. Concord St. L1004, Boston, MA 02118, USA; Department of Anthropology, Boston University, 232 Bay State Rd. #105, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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Khurana B, Bayne HN, Prakash J, Loder RT. Injury patterns and demographics in older adult abuse and falls: A comparative study in emergency department settings. J Am Geriatr Soc 2024; 72:1011-1022. [PMID: 38376211 PMCID: PMC11127187 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.18801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Falls and interpersonal violence pose significant threats to older adults, leading to injuries, hospitalizations, and emergency department (ED) visits. This study investigates the demographics and injury patterns in older adults (aged 60 and above) who sought ED care due to assaults, comparing them with those who experienced falls to gain a deeper understanding of older adult abuse patterns. METHOD This study utilizes data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) All Injury Program (2005-2019) to examine injuries among older adults aged 60 years and above. Participants were categorized into two groups: older adult abuse and injuries due to falls. The differences between the groups by demographics, injury locations, patterns, and temporal trends were analyzed using statistical methods accounting for the weighted stratified nature of the data. Cosinor analysis and Joinpoint regression were used for temporal analysis. RESULTS Over 15 years, there were an estimated 307,237 ED visits for older adult abuse and 39,477,217 for falls. Older adults experiencing abuse were younger and had lower hospital admission rates compared to fall patients. Injuries associated with abuse included contusions/abrasions, penetrating injuries, and fractures to the head/neck, fingers, toes, ribs, and lower extremities. In contrast, fall patients had higher admission rates, with more fractures, including cervical spine and hip fractures. Temporal patterns showed a higher rate of assaults during the summer, whereas abuse demonstrated bimodal peaks in the summer and fall. CONCLUSIONS Injuries associated with abuse such as facial, upper trunk, and upper extremity fractures should raise suspicion even in the absence of severe symptoms. These findings emphasize the importance of early identification to connect older adults with support resources, as patients experiencing abuse often get discharged from the ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharti Khurana
- Trauma Imaging Research and Innovation Center, Department of Radiology and Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Haley N. Bayne
- Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, 89 Beaumont Ave, Burlington, VT 05405
| | - Jaya Prakash
- Trauma Imaging Research and Innovation Center, Department of Radiology and Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston MA 02115
| | - Randall T. Loder
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Children’s Hospital, 705 Riley Hospital Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202
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12
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Junger N, Hirsch O. Ethics of Nudging in the COVID-19 Crisis and the Necessary Return to the Principles of Shared Decision Making: A Critical Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e57960. [PMID: 38601812 PMCID: PMC11005480 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Nudging, a controversial technique for modifying people's behavior in a predictable way, is claimed to preserve freedom of choice while simultaneously influencing it. Nudging had been largely confined to situations such as promoting healthy eating choices but has been employed in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis in a shift towards measures that involve significantly less choice, such as shoves and behavioral prods. Shared decision making (SDM), a method for direct involvement and autonomy, is an alternative approach to communicate risk. Predominantly peer-reviewed scientific publications from standard literature databases like PubMed, PsycInfo, and Psyndex were evaluated in a narrative review. The so-called fear nudges, as well as the dissemination of strongly emotionalizing or moralizing messages can lead to intense psycho-physical stress. The use of these nudges by specialized units during the COVID-19 pandemic generated a societal atmosphere of fear that precipitated a deterioration of the mental and physical health of the population. Major recommendations of the German COVID-19 Snapshot Monitoring (COSMO) study, which are based on elements of nudging and coercive measures, do not comply with ethical principles, basic psychological principles, or evidence-based data. SDM was misused in the COVID-19 crisis, which helped to achieve one-sided goals of governments. The emphasis on utilitarian thinking is criticized and the unethical behavior of decision makers is explained by both using the concept of moral disengagement and the maturity level of coping strategies. There should be a return to an open-ended, democratic, and pluralistic scientific debate without using nudges. It is therefore necessary to return to the origins of SDM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Junger
- Psychology, Independent Researcher, Tübingen, DEU
| | - Oliver Hirsch
- Psychology, FOM University of Applied Sciences, Siegen, DEU
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13
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O'Brien JE, Trumbell JM, O'Brien AJ, Fischer C. Pivots and Partnerships: Successes, Challenges, and Lessons Learned From Conducting Research During a Global Pandemic. Violence Against Women 2023:10778012231222490. [PMID: 38146199 DOI: 10.1177/10778012231222490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
While the importance of including vulnerable populations in research is widely acknowledged, the differential effects of COVID-19 on vulnerable populations necessitated thoughtful participant recruitment. This research note describes one team's attempt at conducting a longitudinal, mixed-methods study during the COVID-19 pandemic with women in the perinatal period who had experienced intimate partner violence. Initial recruitment strategies are provided, as well as the ways in which those initial efforts necessitated revision and redesign. Lessons learned are offered, including ways these strategies may be adapted for other similarly vulnerable populations in the context of a community-level trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jill M Trumbell
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA
| | - Alyssa J O'Brien
- Department of Nursing, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA
| | - Carlie Fischer
- Department of Social Work, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA
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14
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Bhuptani PH, Hunter J, Goodwin C, Millman C, Orchowski LM. Characterizing Intimate Partner Violence in the United States During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:3220-3235. [PMID: 36321779 DOI: 10.1177/15248380221126187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant global health concern. Numerous research studies document increases in IPV since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. Despite this widespread recognition, research around the nature of this violence is still growing. This systematic review summarizes the existing literature documenting the prevalence and characteristics of IPV during the COVID-19 pandemic. Inclusion criteria are as follows: reported original data empirical study, assessed for IPV among adult population in the United States, and was published in English between December 2019 and March 2022. A total of 53 articles were then independently reviewed and sorted into four thematic subcategories: victimization, perpetration, articles addressing victimization and perpetration, and provider perspectives. Studies document consistent increases in the prevalence of IPV victimization and perpetration. Providers within agencies providing support to individuals impacted by IPV also documented increased strain on the agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prachi H Bhuptani
- Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, USA
- Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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15
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Ross AN, Duchesne E, Lewis J, Norman PA, Bartels SA, Walker M, Rocca N. Urgent care-seeking and injury severity for intimate partner violence during COVID-19: a Canadian retrospective chart review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2169. [PMID: 37932707 PMCID: PMC10626712 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16991-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early reports raised alarms that intimate partner violence (IPV) increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, but initial studies showed that visits to emergency departments (EDs) decreased. This study assessed the impact of the prolonged pandemic and its associated restrictions on both rates of urgent care-seeking and injury severity for IPV. METHODS Data from the Kingston Health Sciences Centre's (KHSC) ED were utilized to compare IPV presentations during 'Pre-COVID' (December 17, 2018 - March 16, 2020) and 'COVID' (March 17, 2020 - June 16, 2021), as well as three periods of heightened local restrictions: 'Lockdown-1' (March 17 - June 12, 2020), 'Lockdown-2' (December 26, 2020 - February 10, 2021) and 'Lockdown-3' (April 8 - June 2, 2021). The primary outcomes were incidence rate of IPV visits and injury severity, which was assessed using the Clinical Injury Extent Score (CIES) and Injury Severity Score (ISS). RESULTS A total of 128 individuals were included. This sample had mean age of 34 years, was comprised of mostly women (97%), and represented a variety of intimate relationship types. Some individuals presented multiple times, resulting in a total of 139 acute IPV presentations. The frequency of IPV visits during COVID was similar to the Pre-COVID time period (67 vs. 72; p = 0.67). Incidence rate was 13% higher during COVID, though this difference was non-significant (6.66 vs. 5.90; p = 0.47). IPV visit frequency varied across lockdown periods (11 in Lockdown-1, 12 in Lockdown-2 and 6 in Lockdown-3), with the highest incidence rate during Lockdown-2 (12.71). There were more moderate and severe injuries during COVID compared to Pre-COVID, but mean CIES was not statistically significantly different (1.91 vs. 1.69; p = 0.29), nor was mean ISS (11.88 vs. 12.52; p = 0.73). CONCLUSIONS During the 15-months following the start of COVID-19, there were small, but non-significant increases in both incidence rate and severity of IPV presentations to the KHSC ED. This may reflect escalation of violence as pandemic restrictions persisted and requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison N Ross
- Faculty of Health Sciences (School of Medicine), Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
- Kingston Health Sciences Centre, 76 Stuart St, Victory 3, Kingston, ON, K7L 2V7, Canada.
| | - Emma Duchesne
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Jane Lewis
- Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Program, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Patrick A Norman
- Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Susan A Bartels
- Faculty of Health Sciences (School of Medicine), Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Melanie Walker
- Faculty of Health Sciences (School of Medicine), Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Nicole Rocca
- Faculty of Health Sciences (School of Medicine), Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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16
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Uzoho IC, Baptiste-Roberts K, Animasahun A, Bronner Y. The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Against Women. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH AND HEALTH SERVICES 2023; 53:494-507. [PMID: 37574790 PMCID: PMC10631266 DOI: 10.1177/27551938231185968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a global public health crisis associated with adverse physical, psychological, economic, and social consequences. Studies on the impact of COVID-19 on IPV against women are scarce. This study aimed to understand the impact of COVID-19 on IPV against women. Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library were searched using the MeSH terms intimate partner violence, COVID-19, and women. Exclusion criteria were male-partner, elder, and child abuse and studies that targeted specific groups such as cancer, HIV, and substance abuse. Two independent reviewers completed the title, abstract screening, and review of selected articles. Thirteen out of 647 articles met the inclusion criteria. IPV against women increased in nine countries (Spain, United States, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Turkey, Peru, Bangladesh, Czech Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo); one country showed no change in gender-based violence among adolescent girls and young women (Kenya); and one study reported a decrease in IPV reporting by victims (United States). Policies made to mitigate the pandemic created unintended consequences that exacerbated risk factors for IPV against women. Lessons learned from COVID-19 must be used to develop policy-level support and response services to mitigate IPV against women amid a pandemic and other human crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ijeoma C. Uzoho
- School of Community Health and Policy, Department of Public Health, Morgan State University, 4530 Portage Avenue Campus, Rm 211, 1700 E Cold Spring Lane, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA
| | - Kesha Baptiste-Roberts
- School of Community Health and Policy, Department of Public Health, Morgan State University, 4530 Portage Avenue Campus, Rm 211, 1700 E Cold Spring Lane, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA
| | - Adeola Animasahun
- School of Community Health and Policy, Department of Public Health, Morgan State University, 4530 Portage Avenue Campus, Rm 211, 1700 E Cold Spring Lane, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA
| | - Yvonne Bronner
- School of Community Health and Policy, Department of Public Health, Morgan State University, 4530 Portage Avenue Campus, Rm 206, 1700 E Cold Spring Lane, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA
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17
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Safar C, Jackson KT, Irwin JD, Mantler T. Exploring Coping Strategies Among Older Women Who Have Experienced Intimate Partner Violence During COVID-19. Violence Against Women 2023; 29:2418-2438. [PMID: 37501603 PMCID: PMC10375232 DOI: 10.1177/10778012231188086] [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: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
This interpretive description study explored coping among older women in Ontario experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) during COVID-19. Twelve in-depth interviews with older women found age-related normative beliefs played a role in how older women viewed their lives and how they looked beyond their experiences of IPV. Their roles as caretakers and homemakers influenced their response to IPV, and COVID-19 exacerbated feelings of lost time and loneliness. Coping strategies consisted of social support, including telephone formal services and physical activities. Women expressed a lack of appropriate services and financial limitations as barriers. They identified the need for age-appropriate services that acknowledge their unique experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Safar
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kimberley T. Jackson
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Jennifer D. Irwin
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Tara Mantler
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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18
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Adane M, Kloos H, Mezemir Y, Muche A, Amsalu E. Violence against housemaids in an Ethiopian town during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:485. [PMID: 37700265 PMCID: PMC10498593 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02530-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Violence against women is a global public health problem that has numerous adverse effects. However, published literature regarding violence against housemaids during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ethiopia is lacking. The current study aims to explore the experiences of violence and associated factors among housemaids in Ethiopia. The findings may be useful to the design appropriate policies, programs and strategies to reduce the problem. METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March, 2021 in Kombolcha Town, Ethiopia. A total of 215 housemaids aged 14 years and older were included in the study using a simple random sampling technique. A multivariable logistic regression model with 95% CI (confidence interval) was applied to identify significant factors of physical and sexual violence. Variables with a P-value < 0.05 were declared as factors significantly associated with violence. RESULTS Among 215 housemaids, 33.49% (95% CI: 27.13-39.85%) reported physical violence and 21.4% (95% CI: 15.87-26.92) reported sexual violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, housemaids aged 19-23 years (AOR = 2.64, 95% CI: 1.01-6.89), who had a male employer (AOR = 2.39, 95% CI: 1.05-5.45), whose employers chewed chat (Catha edulis) (AOR = 3.78, 95% CI: 1.73-8.29), or drank alcohol (AOR = 2.90, 95% CI: 1.17-7.17) experienced more physical violence. Sexual violence was also associated with employers' alcohol consumption (AOR = 9.72, 95% CI: 3.12-20.31), employers' chat chewing (AOR = 7.40, 95% CI: 2.26-14.21) and male employers (AOR = 3.23, 95% CI: 1.22-8.52). CONCLUSION The findings indicate that one in five housemaids and one in three housemaids experienced sexual violence and physical violence, respectively. Housemaids aged 19-23 years, having a male employer, having an employer who chewed chat (Catha edulis) or who drank alcohol were factors associated with physical violence, whereas employers' alcohol consumption, employers' chat chewing and male employers were factors associated with sexual violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Metadel Adane
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Kombolcha, Ethiopia.
| | - Helmut Kloos
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | | | - Amare Muche
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Medicine Health Sciences, Wollo University, Kombolcha, Ethiopia
| | - Erkihun Amsalu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Medicine Health Sciences, Wollo University, Kombolcha, Ethiopia
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19
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Bhatt B, Bhatt N, Karki A, Giri G, Baaniya B, Neupane B, Bogati S, Mahaju S, Poudel A, Pokharel S, Kafle N, Nepal S, Sapkota R, Shrestha S, Tuitui RL, Sagtani RA. Intimate partner violence against married women of reproductive age in Nepal during the COVID-19 pandemic. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20117. [PMID: 37809852 PMCID: PMC10559861 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant public health concern in Nepal and its prevalence has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of IPV among married women of reproductive age in Nepal during the pandemic. Methods A web-based survey was conducted with 420 participants using a validated questionnaire adopted from the World Health Organization. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed. Results Our study found that 52.62% of participants experienced IPV during the COVID-19 pandemic with economic violence being the most prevalent type (38.81%) and followed by behavioral control (37.14%), emotional violence (26.20%), physical violence (21.43%), and sexual violence (14.05%). Despite the high level of IPV, only 14% of participants sought help and only 6% reported the violence to the police. Univariate analyses showed that factors such as the husband's level of education and occupation, number of children, property ownership, husband's alcohol use, relationship and quarrels with the husband, fear of the husband, and participation in decision-making were associated with an increased risk of IPV. Multivariate analysis revealed that women involved in decision-making faced a 2.52 times higher risk of violence, that women who reported daily quarrels had a risk 5.47 times that of women who did not endorse fights, and that women who were afraid of their husbands had a risk 16 times that of women who did not report fear. Conclusion This study reveals a concerning prevalence of IPV among married women in Nepal during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings emphasize the low reporting rates and help-seeking behavior among IPV victims. They also highlight the significant influence of factors such as participation in decision-making, frequent quarrels, and fear. These findings underscore the urgent need to establish support systems for IPV victims and develop targeted interventions tailored to the local context. Furthermore, conducting comprehensive research and understanding the interplay of contributing factors can guide the formulation of effective strategies to combat this pervasive societal problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bandana Bhatt
- Department of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Population, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Navin Bhatt
- Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Institute of Medicine, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Ashmita Karki
- Central Department of Public Health, Institute of Medicine, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | | | - Bandana Neupane
- Nepal Health Sector Support Programme (NHSSP)/DFID/Ministry of Health and Population, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Satyam Mahaju
- Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Anubhav Poudel
- Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | | | - Shristi Nepal
- Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Institute of Medicine, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Sangita Shrestha
- Department of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Population, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Roshani Laxmi Tuitui
- Department of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Population, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Kim S, Warren E, Jahangir T, Al-Garadi M, Guo Y, Yang YC, Lakamana S, Sarker A. Characteristics of Intimate Partner Violence and Survivor's Needs During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Insights From Subreddits Related to Intimate Partner Violence. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:9693-9716. [PMID: 37102576 PMCID: PMC10140775 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231168816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Collecting actionable IPV-related data from conventional sources (e.g., medical records) was challenging during the pandemic, generating a need to obtain relevant data from non-conventional sources, such as social media. Social media, like Reddit, is a preferred medium of communication for IPV survivors to share their experiences and seek support with protected anonymity. Nevertheless, the scope of available IPV-related data on social media is rarely documented. Thus, we examined the availability of IPV-related information on Reddit and the characteristics of the reported IPV during the pandemic. Using natural language processing, we collected publicly available Reddit data from four IPV-related subreddits between January 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021. Of 4,000 collected posts, we randomly sampled 300 posts for analysis. Three individuals on the research team independently coded the data and resolved the coding discrepancies through discussions. We adopted quantitative content analysis and calculated the frequency of the identified codes. 36% of the posts (n = 108) constituted self-reported IPV by survivors, of which 40% regarded current/ongoing IPV, and 14% contained help-seeking messages. A majority of the survivors' posts reflected psychological aggression, followed by physical violence. Notably, 61.4% of the psychological aggression involved expressive aggression, followed by gaslighting (54.3%) and coercive control (44.3%). Survivors' top three needs during the pandemic were hearing similar experiences, legal advice, and validating their feelings/reactions/thoughts/actions. Albeit limited, data from bystanders (survivors' friends, family, or neighbors) were also available. Rich data reflecting IPV survivors' lived experiences were available on Reddit. Such information will be useful for IPV surveillance, prevention, and intervention.
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Nicoll G, Vincent J, Gajaria A, Zaheer J. A trauma-informed approach to suicide prevention for the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychiatry Res 2023; 327:115407. [PMID: 37579538 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115407] [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] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers have questioned how the devastation of the pandemic might impact suicide rates. While initial evidence on suicide rates during the early stages of the pandemic is mixed, there are signs we should still remain vigilant. One way of conceptualizing the long-term effects of the pandemic is as a source of multiple traumatic events: the collective trauma of widespread illness and death and social upheaval, individual traumas from the virus itself (e.g., serious illness and disability, traumatic grief, vicarious trauma), traumas from the social and economic consequences (e.g., domestic violence, unemployment), and its intersections with pre-pandemic traumas and oppression. Given trauma is a well-established risk factor for suicide, this carries significant implications for suicide prevention in the wake of the pandemic. Yet access to trauma-informed care, education, and research remains limited. The pandemic presents a unique opportunity to address these gaps and implement a trauma-informed approach to suicide prevention. Building on existing frameworks, we describe how effective suicide prevention for the pandemic must incorporate trauma-informed and trauma-specific services, strategies, and policies; capacity building; collaborative research; and knowledge exchange. Attending to the traumatic effects of the pandemic may reduce the long-term impact on suicide rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Nicoll
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts & Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute for Medical Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jacqueline Vincent
- St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy Gajaria
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Juveria Zaheer
- Institute for Medical Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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22
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Ozgurluk I, Tastekin B, Yazkan Hira S, Gungorer B, Hekimoglu Y, Keskin HL, Keskin S, Asirdizer M. Assessment of the COVID-19 Pandemic's Impact on Physical Intimate Partner Violence Against Pregnant Women in Ankara (Turkey): A Hospital-Based Study. Int J Womens Health 2023; 15:1161-1169. [PMID: 37520182 PMCID: PMC10378456 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s419014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose A significant increase in physical intimate partner violence (IPV) cases has been reported from many countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, and particularly during lockdown periods. The current study's objectives are to define the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on physical IPV against pregnant women in Ankara. Patients and Methods During the one-year pre-pandemic and two-year pandemic, records of patients who sent by the judicial authorities to the Obstetrics and Gynecology Emergency Room (ER) at Ankara City Hospital were reviewed, and pregnant women who had been subjected to IPV were identified. Results Of pregnant women 19.1% in the pre-pandemic period, 29.4% in the first year and 51.5% in the second year of the pandemic period exposed to IPV. The mean age of IPV victims was 28.8 ± 6.5 years. Most ER applications were in the evening hours (48.5%), and majority of assailants were the victim's husband (77.9%). Vast majority of victims were multigravida women (89.7), and most of the traumas were localized in abdomen and genitalia (50%). Three of the women (4.4%) had miscarriage. Conclusion The increase in cases of IVP against pregnant women during the pandemic was striking, according to the current study. We think that this first study from Turkey on the IPV that pregnant women are exposed to during the pandemic can lead to extensive research focused on measures against IPV during pandemics, such as dissemination of telephone applications for IPV victims, increasing home visits by marriage therapists, and intensifying of education campaigns against violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izzet Ozgurluk
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Burak Tastekin
- Clinic of Forensic Medicine, Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sila Yazkan Hira
- Clinic of Forensic Medicine, Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bulent Gungorer
- Clinic of Emergency Medicine, Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yavuz Hekimoglu
- Clinic of Forensic Medicine, Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Huseyin Levent Keskin
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Siddik Keskin
- Department of Biostatistics, Medical School of Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey
| | - Mahmut Asirdizer
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical Faculty of Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Fu Y, Fournier K, Seguin N, Cobey K, Sampsel K, Murphy MSQ, Wen SW, Walker M, Muldoon KA. Interventions for intimate partner violence during the perinatal period: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e065560. [PMID: 37451742 PMCID: PMC10351229 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Globally, the prevalence and incidence of perinatal intimate partner violence (IPV) are well documented and substantiated; however, there is an urgent need to identify interventions to prevent recurrence or revictimisation, and decrease the harms of perinatal IPV. This scoping review is designed to broadly capture all potential interventions for the secondary prevention of IPV, review them in detail, and assess what can reduce revictimisation and foster improvements in both maternal and neonatal outcomes. METHODS AND ANALYSIS With the structure of the Joanna Briggs Institute and Arksey and O'Malley methodology for scoping reviews, the search will be conducted in: MEDLINE(R) ALL (OvidSP), Embase (OvidSP), CINAHL (EBSCOHost), APA PsycInfo (OvidSP), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (OvidSP), Web of Science, and Applied Social Sciences Index & Abstracts (ProQuest). A manual search of the reference lists of the retrieved articles will be conducted to capture all relevant studies for potential inclusion. A year limit of January 2000-June 2022 will be applied to retrieve most current peer-reviewed articles. No search filters or language limits will be used, but only publications in English and French will be eligible for inclusion. Interventions include but are not limited to: psychotherapy, educational sessions, home visitation, etc. Outcomes include but are not limited to: (1) harms of IPV among survivors (eg, revictimisation) and (2) adverse perinatal outcomes (eg, preterm birth). Interventions will be excluded if they target the perpetrator or child(ren) alone. Titles and abstracts of included studies will be screened in duplicate. Full-text documents will be extracted and reviewed by two independent reviewers. Conflicts between reviewers will be resolved by a third independent reviewer. Findings will be presented with descriptive statistics and narrative synthesis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval is not required for this scoping review. The results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication and conference presentations. STUDY REGISTRATION Open Science Framework (OSF) registry (https://osf.io/e294r) in Centre for Open Science (OSF) on 27 May 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Fu
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karine Fournier
- Health Science Library, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Niève Seguin
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kelly Cobey
- Open Science and Meta-Research Program, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kari Sampsel
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Emergency Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Malia S Q Murphy
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shi Wu Wen
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark Walker
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Newborn Care, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Katherine A Muldoon
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Hagen AEF, Nogueira-Arjona R, Sherry SB, Rodriguez LM, Yakovenko I, Stewart SH. What explains the link between romantic conflict with gambling problems? Testing a serial mediational model. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1018098. [PMID: 37502746 PMCID: PMC10370473 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1018098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction While individuals have many motives to gamble, one particularly risky motive for gambling is to cope with negative affect. Conflict with one's romantic partner is a strong predictor of negative affect, which may elicit coping motives for gambling and, in turn, gambling-related problems. Support for this mediational model was demonstrated in relation to drinking-related problems. We extended this model to gambling. Method Using a cross-sectional design, we examined links between romantic conflict (Partner-Specific Rejecting Behaviors Scale), negative affect (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales-21), coping gambling motives (Gambling Motives Questionnaire, coping subscale), and gambling-related problems [Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI)] in 206 regular gamblers (64% men; mean age = 44.7 years; mean PGSI = 8.7) who were in a romantic relationship and recruited through Qualtrics Panels in July 2021. Results Results supported our hypothesis that the association between romantic conflict and gambling-related problems would be sequentially mediated through negative affect and coping gambling motives, β = 0.38, 95% CI [0.27, 0.39], and also showed a strong single mediation pathway through negative affect alone, β = 0.27, 95% CI [0.17, 0.38]. Discussion Negative affect and coping gambling motives partially explain the link between romantic conflict and gambling-related problems. Interventions should target both negative affect and coping gambling motives in response to romantic conflict to reduce gambling-related problems in partnered gamblers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda E. F. Hagen
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | - Simon B. Sherry
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Lindsey M. Rodriguez
- Department of Psychology, University of South Florida St. Petersburg Campus, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Igor Yakovenko
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Sherry H. Stewart
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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25
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Hagen AEF, Rodriguez LM, Neighbors C, Nogueira-Arjona R, Sherry SB, Lambe L, Deacon SH, Meier S, Abbass A, Stewart SH. Drinking to Cope Mediates the Association between Dyadic Conflict and Drinking Behavior: A Study of Romantic Couples during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6332. [PMID: 37510565 PMCID: PMC10379069 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20146332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic spurred public health measures to reduce viral spread. Concurrently, increases in alcohol consumption and conflict in romantic partnerships were observed. Pre-pandemic research demonstrated a bidirectional association between couples' conflict and drinking. Recent research shows one's drinking motives (proximal predictors of drinking behavior) can influence another person's drinking in close relationships. It is possible that individuals are drinking to cope with distress following romantic conflict. The current study examined 348 cohabitating couples during the first lockdown in the spring of 2020. Our analyses examined coping motives as a mediator between dyadic conflict and drinking behavior using actor-partner interdependence models. Results showed that conflict was associated with greater reports of own drinking in gendered (distinguishable) and nongendered (indistinguishable) analyses through coping motives. Further, in mixed-gender couples, men partners' coping motives predicted less drinking in women, while women partners' coping motives predicted marginally more drinking in men. Partner effects may have been observed due to the increased romantic partner influence during the COVID-19 lockdown. While these results suggest that men's coping motives may be protective against women's drinking, more concerning possibilities are discussed. The importance of considering dyadic influences on drinking is highlighted; clinical and policy implications are identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda E F Hagen
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | | | - Clayton Neighbors
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | | | - Simon B Sherry
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Laura Lambe
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - S Hélène Deacon
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Sandra Meier
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 2E2, Canada
| | - Allan Abbass
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 2E2, Canada
| | - Sherry H Stewart
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 2E2, Canada
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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26
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Moore BC, Clements C, Turton E. Intimate Partner Violence Victimization, Mental Health, and Unemployment: Year One of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Violence Against Women 2023:10778012231182413. [PMID: 37394788 PMCID: PMC10315874 DOI: 10.1177/10778012231182413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
We assessed the impact of mental health and participant and partner unemployment on physical, sexual, and psychological intimate partner violence (IPV). Data were collected within 1 month of individual state Covid-19 mandates (Time I) and 2 months after mandates eased (Time II). Sexual IPV was highest when both partners were unemployed for reasons other than Covid-19 while physical IPV was highest when both partners were unemployed due to Covid-19. Physical IPV victims reported more depression and somatization at Time II than at Time I. Nonvictims did not. There were no differences in IPV prevalence during and after restrictions. Clinical and policy implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittanie C. Moore
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, USA
| | - Caroline Clements
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, USA
| | - Emma Turton
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, USA
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27
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van Gelder NE, Ligthart SA, van Rosmalen-Nooijens KA, Prins JB, Oertelt-Prigione S. Effectiveness of the SAFE eHealth Intervention for Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence and Abuse: Randomized Controlled Trial, Quantitative Process Evaluation, and Open Feasibility Study. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e42641. [PMID: 37368485 DOI: 10.2196/42641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intimate partner violence and abuse (IPVA) is a pervasive societal issue that impacts many women globally. Web-based help options are becoming increasingly available and have the ability to eliminate certain barriers in help seeking for IPVA, especially in improving accessibility. OBJECTIVE This study focused on the quantitative evaluation of the SAFE eHealth intervention for women IPVA survivors. METHODS A total of 198 women who experienced IPVA participated in a randomized controlled trial and quantitative process evaluation. Participants were largely recruited on the internet and signed up through self-referral. They were allocated (blinded for the participants) to (1) the intervention group (N=99) with access to a complete version of a help website containing 4 modules on IPVA, support options, mental health, and social support, and with interactive components such as a chat, or (2) the limited-intervention control group (N=99). Data were gathered about self-efficacy, depression, anxiety, and multiple feasibility aspects. The primary outcome was self-efficacy at 6 months. The process evaluation focused on themes, such as ease of use and feeling helped. In an open feasibility study (OFS; N=170), we assessed demand, implementation, and practicality. All data for this study were collected through web-based self-report questionnaires and automatically registered web-based data such as page visits and amount of logins. RESULTS We found no significant difference over time between groups for self-efficacy, depression, anxiety, fear of partner, awareness, and perceived support. However, both study arms showed significantly decreased scores for anxiety and fear of partner. Most participants in both groups were satisfied, but the intervention group showed significantly higher scores for suitability and feeling helped. However, we encountered high attrition for the follow-up surveys. Furthermore, the intervention was positively evaluated on multiple feasibility aspects. The average amount of logins did not significantly differ between the study arms, but participants in the intervention arm did spend significantly more time on the website. An increase in registrations during the OFS (N=170) was identified: the mean amount of registrations per month was 13.2 during the randomized controlled trial and 56.7 during the OFS. CONCLUSIONS Our findings did not show a significant difference in outcomes between the extensive SAFE intervention and the limited-intervention control group. It is, however, difficult to quantify the real contribution of the interactive components, as the control group also had access to a limited version of the intervention for ethical reasons. Both groups were satisfied with the intervention they received, with the intervention study arm significantly more so than the control study arm. Integrated and multilayered approaches are needed to aptly quantify the impact of web-based IPVA interventions for survivors. TRIAL REGISTRATION Netherlands Trial Register NL7108 NTR7313; https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=NTR7313.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole E van Gelder
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Suzanne A Ligthart
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Karin Awl van Rosmalen-Nooijens
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Judith B Prins
- Department of Medical Psychology, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Sabine Oertelt-Prigione
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Research Institute for Medical Innovation, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Arbeitsgruppe 10 Sex- and Gender-sensitive Medicine, Medical Faculty Ostwestfalen-Lippe, University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
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28
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Hodgkinson S, Dixon A, Halford E, Farrell G. Domestic abuse in the Covid-19 pandemic: measures designed to overcome common limitations of trend measurement. CRIME SCIENCE 2023; 12:12. [PMID: 37334168 PMCID: PMC10262932 DOI: 10.1186/s40163-023-00190-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Research on pandemic domestic abuse trends has produced inconsistent findings reflecting differences in definitions, data and method. This study analyses 43,488 domestic abuse crimes recorded by a UK police force. Metrics and analytic approaches are tailored to address key methodological issues in three key ways. First, it was hypothesised that reporting rates changed during lockdown, so natural language processing was used to interrogate untapped free-text information in police records to develop a novel indicator of change in reporting. Second, it was hypothesised that abuse would change differentially for those cohabiting (due to physical proximity) compared to non-cohabitees, which was assessed via a proxy measure. Third, the analytic approaches used were change-point analysis and anomaly detection: these are more independent than regression analysis for present purposes in gauging the timing and duration of significant change. However, the main findings were largely contrary to expectation: (1) domestic abuse did not increase during the first national lockdown in early 2020 but increased across a prolonged post-lockdown period, (2) the post-lockdown increase did not reflect change in reporting by victims, and; (3) the proportion of abuse between cohabiting partners, at around 40 percent of the total, did not increase significantly during or after the lockdown. The implications of these unanticipated findings are discussed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40163-023-00190-7.
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29
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Kliem S, von Thadden A, Lohmann A, Kröger C, Baier D. The Effect of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Domestic Violence in Germany: A Comparison of Three Representative Population Surveys. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:7296-7314. [PMID: 36636865 PMCID: PMC9849116 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221143194] [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: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound societal and economic effects. Concerns were raised that domestic violence might increase because of the enacted infection control measures. Previous findings on this issue have been contradictory. Since existing studies mainly rely on official reports, administrative data, helpline calls, or retrospective measures, their findings are likely to prove unreliable. Few population-based surveys include pre-pandemic data, limiting their ability to test for causality regarding increasing violence. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare findings from population-representative surveys on the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) and violence against children (VAC) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on the data of N = 3,639 individuals living with a romantic partner and N = 1,313 parents living with at least one of their children from three German representative population surveys, we estimated average marginal effects for the temporal trends (i.e., pre vs. post infection control measures) of domestic violence separately for males and females. To minimize bias across survey waves, inverse probability weighting was used. Results show no statistically significant increase in either physical or psychological forms of IPV or VAC as a result of the implementation of COVID measures. On the contrary, the 1-year prevalence was decreasing for certain forms of violence. Our findings suggest that the assessment of the consequences of infection control measures needs an empirical basis. Further research should be conducted using high-quality data sources. Therefore, the present study should be considered a stepping stone for ongoing research efforts to examine the consequences of pandemic-related infection control measures on the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sören Kliem
- University of Applied Science, Jena, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Dirk Baier
- ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
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30
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Campbell L, Tan RKJ, Uhlich M, Francis JM, Mark K, Miall N, Eleuteri S, Gabster A, Shamu S, Plášilová L, Kemigisha E, Olumide A, Kosana P, Hurtado-Murillo F, Larsson EC, Cleeve A, Calvo González S, Perrotta G, Fernández Albamonte V, Blanco L, Schröder J, Adebayo A, Hendriks J, Saltis H, Marks M, Wu D, Morroni C, Esho T, Briken P, Hlatshwako TG, Ryan R, Farid NDN, Gomez Bravo R, Van de Velde S, Tucker JD. Intimate Partner Violence During COVID-19 Restrictions: A Study of 30 Countries From the I-SHARE Consortium. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:7115-7142. [PMID: 36703528 PMCID: PMC9895276 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221141865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) causes substantial physical and psychological trauma. Restrictions introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including lockdowns and movement restrictions, may exacerbate IPV risk and reduce access to IPV support services. This cross-sectional study examines IPV during COVID-19 restrictions in 30 countries from the International Sexual HeAlth and REproductive Health (I-SHARE) study conducted from July 20th, 2020, to February, 15th, 2021. IPV was a primary outcome measure adapted from a World Health Organization multicountry survey. Mixed-effects modeling was used to determine IPV correlates among participants stratified by cohabitation status. The sample included 23,067 participants from 30 countries. A total of 1,070/15,336 (7.0%) participants stated that they experienced IPV during COVID-19 restrictions. A total of 1,486/15,336 (9.2%) participants stated that they had experienced either physical or sexual partner violence before the restrictions, which then decreased to 1,070 (7.0%) after the restrictions. In general, identifying as a sexual minority and experiencing greater economic vulnerability were associated with higher odds of experiencing IPV during COVID-19 restrictions, which were accentuated among participants who were living with their partners. Greater stringency of COVID-19 restrictions and living in urban or semi-urban areas were associated with lower odds of experiencing IPV in some settings. The I-SHARE data suggest a substantial burden of IPV during COVID-19 restrictions. However, the restrictions were correlated with reduced IPV in some settings. There is a need for investing in specific support systems for survivors of IPV during the implementation of restrictions designed to contain infectious disease outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Campbell
- Center for Population, Family, and
Health, University of Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary
Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rayner K. J. Tan
- Dermatology Hospital of Southern
Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- University of North Carolina Project,
Guangzhou, China
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health,
National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Joel M. Francis
- Department of Family Medicine and
Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Witwatersrand,
Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kristen Mark
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Health,
University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Naomi Miall
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty
of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine,
London, UK
| | - Stefano Eleuteri
- Faculty of Medicine and Psychology,
Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Amanda Gabster
- Department of Genomics and
Proteomics, Gorgas Memorial Institute for Health Studies, Panama City, Panama
- National Research System, National
Secretariat of Science, Technology and Innovation, Panama City, Panama
- Center of Population Sciences for
Health Equity, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Simukai Shamu
- Health Systems Strengthening
Division, Foundation for Professional Development, Pretoria, South Africa
- School of Public Health, Faculty of
Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Leona Plášilová
- Department of Psychology and Life
Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Sexology
and Psychopathology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech
Republic
| | | | - Adesola Olumide
- Institute of Child Health, College of
Medicine, University of Ibadan and University College Hospital, Ibadan,
Nigeria
| | - Priya Kosana
- Institute of Global Health and
Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC,
USA
| | - Felipe Hurtado-Murillo
- Center for Sexual and Reproductive
Health, University Hospital Doctor Peset, Valencia, Spain
| | - Elin C. Larsson
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of
Global Health and Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Stockholm,
Sweden
| | - Amanda Cleeve
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of
Global Health and Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Stockholm,
Sweden
- South General Hospital, Stockholm,
Sweden
| | | | - Gabriela Perrotta
- Faculty of Psychology, University of
Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Lucía Blanco
- Faculty of Psychology, University of
Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Johanna Schröder
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual
Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf,
Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Jacqueline Hendriks
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research
and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth,
Australia
| | - Hanna Saltis
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research
and Impact in Public Health, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth,
Australia
| | - Michael Marks
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty
of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine,
London, UK
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases,
University College London Hospital, London, UK
- Division of Infection and Immunity,
University College London, London, UK
| | - Dan Wu
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty
of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine,
London, UK
| | - Chelsea Morroni
- Centre for Reproductive Health,
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Botswana Sexual and Reproductive
Health Initiative, Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone,
Botswana
| | | | - Peer Briken
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual
Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf,
Hamburg, Germany
| | - Takhona Grace Hlatshwako
- Institute of Global Health and
Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC,
USA
| | - Rebecca Ryan
- Botswana Sexual and Reproductive
Health Initiative, Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone,
Botswana
| | - Nik Daliana Nik Farid
- Department of Social and Preventive
Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Raquel Gomez Bravo
- Institute for Health and Behaviour,
Department of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg,
Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Sarah Van de Velde
- Center for Population, Family, and
Health, University of Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty
of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine,
London, UK
- Institute of Global Health and
Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC,
USA
- Joseph D. Tucker, Institute of Global
Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
Bioinformatics, 130 Mason Farm Road, 2nd Floor, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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Colton KC, Godleski SA, Baschnagel JS, Houston RJ, DeHarder SM. Alcohol use during the COVID-19 pandemic: gender, parenthood, intimate partner violence, and stress. AIMS Public Health 2023; 10:360-377. [PMID: 37304583 PMCID: PMC10251053 DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2023027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Some preliminary work during the COVID-19 pandemic indicates that adult alcohol use increased, particularly for parents. This cross-sectional study examined the quantity and frequency of adults' alcohol use during the early stages of the pandemic. Additionally, the influences of gender, parenthood, COVID-19-related stressors and intimate partner violence (IPV) on alcohol consumption were examined. The sample consisted of 298 adults (98 parents) from across the United States who completed self-report surveys through Qualtrics at the beginning of the pandemic in May 2020. In the present study, all men reported higher levels of drinking compared to all women. Although stress levels did not impact alcohol consumption, findings indicate that increased IPV experiences were associated with higher levels of heavy drinking during the pandemic. Results also suggested that having children in the home particularly impacted drinking levels during the pandemic, above and beyond the influence of gender, IPV, and stress levels. These findings suggest that parenthood may have had a cascading influence on drinking experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Implications and recommendations for further research are discussed.
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Lynch KR, Logan T. Rural and Urban/Suburban Victim Professionals' Perceptions of Gender-Based Violence, Victim Challenges, and Safety Advice During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Violence Against Women 2023; 29:1060-1084. [PMID: 35938486 PMCID: PMC9412151 DOI: 10.1177/10778012221099987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study surveyed a national sample of victim service professionals (N = 222) and compared rural versus urban/suburban participants' perceptions of a variety of issues, such as the impact of the pandemic on gender-based violence victimization and safety advice for isolated victims. Increased interference with victim employment and the abuser monitoring of online activities were reported by participants across all communities. However, urban/suburban participants rated the magnitude of all victim challenges as greater, while more rural participants noted child abuse as a particular problem in their communities. The results highlight the importance of community context for improving coordinated responses to gender-based violence (n = 101).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie R. Lynch
- Department of Criminology &
Criminal Justice, College for Health, Community and Policy, University of Texas at San
Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - T.K. Logan
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research,
Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Tang A, Wong A, Khurana B. Imaging of Intimate Partner Violence, From the AJR Special Series on Emergency Radiology. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2023; 220:476-485. [PMID: 36069484 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.22.27973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a highly prevalent public health issue with multiple adverse health effects. Radiologists are well suited to assessing a patient's likelihood of IPV. Recognition of common IPV injury mechanisms and resulting target and defensive injury patterns on imaging and understanding of differences between patients who have experienced IPV and those who have not with respect to use of imaging will aid radiologists in accurate IPV diagnosis. Target injuries often involve the face and neck as a result of blunt trauma or strangulation; defensive injuries often involve an extremity. Awareness of differences in injury patterns resulting from IPV-related and accidental trauma can aid radiologists in detecting a mismatch between the provided clinical history and imaging findings to support suspicion of IPV. Radiologists should consider all available current and prior imaging in assessing the likelihood of IPV; this process may be aided by machine learning methods. Even if correctly suspecting IPV on the basis of imaging, radiologists face challenges in acting on that suspicion, including appropriately documenting the findings, without compromising the patient's confidentiality and safety. However, through a multidisciplinary approach with appropriate support mechanisms, radiologists may serve as effective frontline physicians for raising suspicion of IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anji Tang
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115
- Trauma Imaging Research and Innovation Center, Brigham and Women's Health, Boston, MA
| | - Andrew Wong
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Bharti Khurana
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115
- Trauma Imaging Research and Innovation Center, Brigham and Women's Health, Boston, MA
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Sutton A, Beech H. The impact of stay-at-home orders on safety and stability for women: A topical review of intimate partner violence and intimate femicide in the United States during the initial phase of COVID-19. JOURNAL OF FAMILY VIOLENCE 2023; 39:1-15. [PMID: 37358986 PMCID: PMC10041482 DOI: 10.1007/s10896-023-00530-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Purpose We intend to identify the links between COVID-19, intimate partner violence (IPV), and intimate femicide (IF) for women in the United States by answering the following questions: (1) what does the existing literature say about the intersection of COVID-19, IPV, and IF and (2) what are the contributing factors leading to rates of violence against women during COVID-19? Method This topical review summarizes studies published on IPV and IF during the initial stages of COVID-19 covering the period of March 1, 2020, to July 31, 2021. This review identified 22 articles addressing rates of IPV and IF during COVID-19, exacerbating risk factors for women, and recommendations for responses and intervention efforts. Results Findings revealed an increase in help-seeking calls during the initial phase of the pandemic and COVID-related circumstances such as extended confinement, unemployment, school closures, social isolation, and financial strains intensifying women's experiences of violence. Data also revealed an increase in purchasing firearms, which increases the risk of women being killed by an intimate partner (Lyons et al., 2020). The nexus of COVID-19 and IPV disproportionately impact women, specifically, Latina immigrants. Implications for utilizing an intersectional framework to further examine these issues and promote social and political change are provided. Conclusion Since the rates of IPV and femicide have been reported as increasing during COVID-19, understanding the complexities and stressors associated with life in a pandemic is essential for addressing inequalities women face and the health of our communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Sutton
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work, Auburn University at Montgomery, 7400 East Drive, Montgomery, AL US
| | - Haley Beech
- School of Social Work, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL US
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Caira-Chuquineyra B, Fernandez-Guzman D, Orellana D, Pomareda Vera AE, Gomez CJ, Valencia PD, Román-Lazarte V. Sociodemographic Factors Associated with Social Tolerance for Intimate Partner Violence in Peru: Evidence from the National Survey of Social Relations, 2019. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:5262-5281. [PMID: 36062746 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221120897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Our objective was to determine the factors associated with social tolerance for intimate partner violence (IPV) in the Peruvian population. A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Data from the 2019 National Survey of Social Relations (ENARES) of Peru were used. This survey collected data from a total of 1,026 Peruvians aged 18 years and older. Multilevel linear regression models were performed to evaluate the factors associated with a standardized index of social tolerance for IPV. Likewise, a stratified analysis was performed according to sex. Being older (β = .01; 95% confidence interval [CI]: .01-.01) and living outside the capital (β = 0.24; 95% CI: .07-0.41) were associated with greater social tolerance for IPV. On the other hand, being female (β = -0.26; 95% CI: -0.36 to -0.17) and having a higher educational level were associated with lower tolerance. In the stratified analysis by sex, in both men and women, being older and having a higher level of education were associated with higher and lower tolerance for IPV, respectively. On the other hand, living outside the capital was associated with greater tolerance only in men. In Peru, older people and those living outside the capital showed greater acceptance of IPV, while women and those with higher levels of education expressed rejection of IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Caira-Chuquineyra
- Grupo Peruano de Investigación Epidemiológica, Unidad para la Generación y Síntesis de Evidencias en Salud, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Arequipa, Peru
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional de San Agustín de Arequipa, Peru
| | - Daniel Fernandez-Guzman
- Grupo Peruano de Investigación Epidemiológica, Unidad para la Generación y Síntesis de Evidencias en Salud, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Arequipa, Peru
- Escuela Profesional de Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, Peru
| | - Dayanne Orellana
- Unidad de Investigación Experimental, Universidad Católica Boliviana "San Pablo", La Paz, Bolivia
| | | | - Cristhoper J Gomez
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Pablo D Valencia
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico, Mexico
| | - Víctor Román-Lazarte
- Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrión, Cerro de Pasco, Peru
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Abujilban S, AbuAbed A, Mrayan L, Nashwan AJ, Al-Modallal H, Damra J, Alrousan D, Hamaideh S. Pregnant Women's experiences with intimate partner violence one year after the COVID-19 pandemic in Jordan. Nurs Open 2023. [PMID: 36826391 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.1669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To assess the prevalence and compare the levels of intimate partner violence (IPV) before and during the pandemic and to identify the factors that associated with physical IPV among Jordanian pregnant women. DESIGN A cross-sectional, correlational design. Women were asked to report their experience with IPV twice: during and before the pandemic. METHODS A convenience sampling technique was used to select pregnant women from National Woman's Health Care Center from 15 April to 1 September 2021. The Domestic Violence Questionnaire Screening Tool (DVQST) was used to assess the levels of IPV. RESULTS The women (n = 232) who participated in the study experienced considerable levels of IPV before (69% control IPV, 59.90% psychological, 46.10% physical, 43.10% sexual) and during (75.90% control IPV, 64.20% psychological, 46.10% physical, 40.90% sexual) the pandemic. There were statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05) higher mean DVQST scores for control IPV and psychological IPV during the pandemic (control IPV mean = 9.78, psychological mean = 7.03) versus before the pandemic (control IPV mean = 8.95, psychological mean = 6.62). Woman's educational level, marriage duration, woman's employment status, and level of mutual understanding were inversely associated with physical IPV during the pandemic. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION IPV is a global public health problem and a major violation of human rights. The levels of control IPV and psychological IPV increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, while the levels of physical and sexual IPV stayed the same. Antenatal screening for IPV is crucial to save women and their offspring from suffering this type of violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaa Abujilban
- Department of Maternal, Child and Family Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | | | - Lina Mrayan
- Department of Maternal, Child and Family Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | | | - Hanan Al-Modallal
- Department of Community and Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan.,Department of Nursing, Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jalal Damra
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling Psychology, Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Dheaya Alrousan
- Faculty of Prince AlHasan Bin Talal, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Shaher Hamaideh
- Department of Community and Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
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Mikhael V, Ghabi R, Belahmer A, Kadi R, Guirguis N, Gutzeit A, Froehlich JM, Ferreira E, Higgs T, Dufour MM, Theoret V, Hebert M, Turgeon J, Balcom MC, Khurana B, Matoori S. Intimate partner violence: Defining the pharmacist’s role. Can Pharm J (Ott) 2023; 156:63-70. [PMID: 36969310 PMCID: PMC10034523 DOI: 10.1177/17151635231152450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Andreas Gutzeit
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, and the Institute of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine and Breast Center St. Anna
| | - Johannes M. Froehlich
- Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna, Lucerne, Switzerland; the Clinical Research Group, Klus Lab Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ema Ferreira
- Faculté de Pharmacie
- Département de pharmacie, CHU Ste-Justine, Montreal, Quebec
| | | | | | - Valerie Theoret
- Département de sexologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Quebec
| | - Martine Hebert
- Département de sexologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Quebec
| | - Joane Turgeon
- Faculté de l’éducation permanente, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec
| | | | - Bharti Khurana
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Sanz-Barbero B, Estévez-Garcia F, La Parra-Casado D, Lopez-Ossorio JJ, Vives-Cases C. Intimate partner violence complaints during COVID-19 lockdown in Spain: a cross-sectional and a case-control study. Eur J Public Health 2023:7034608. [PMID: 36773315 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 lockdown, a large proportion of the women exposed to intimate partner violence had to live with their abusers full-time. This study analyzes the new official complaints that were filed during the lockdown in Spain. METHODS Data from the Comprehensive Monitoring System for Cases of Gender Violence from the Ministry of the Interior, Spain. Using logistic regression models, the complaints registered during the lockdown were compared to those registered in the previous year. Subsequently, we analysed association between the seriousness of the incident reported and the period in which the complaint was filed. RESULTS Official complaints decreased by 19% during the lockdown. The probability of complaints during lockdown mainly increased when victims had a relationship with the abusers [odds ratio (OR) = 1.33] and when they lacked social support (OR = 1.22). The probability that the complaints were associated with previous jealousy (OR = 0.87), previous harassment behaviours (OR = 0.88) or the victim's fear for minors' safety (OR = 0.87) decreased. In addition, during lockdown increased the probability that the complaints filed were due to incidents of severe physical violence (OR = 1.17); severe psychological violence against women with minors in their charge (OR = 1.22); and severe violence due to threats (OR = 1.53) when the woman had previously suffered harassment. CONCLUSIONS The decrease in new complaints during the studied period and the increase in their severity evidence difficulties in seeking help due to the lockdown. In situations of confinement, it is necessary to design measures that protect women with a lack of social support, and at those who live with the aggressor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Sanz-Barbero
- National School of Public Health, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER for Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Carmen Vives-Cases
- CIBER for Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Community Nursing, Preventive Medicine, Public Health and History of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
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Schweinhart A, Aramburú C, Bauer R, Simons-Rudolph A, Atwood K, Luseno WK. Changes in Mental Health, Emotional Distress, and Substance Use Affecting Women Experiencing Violence and Their Service Providers during COVID-19 in a U.S. Southern State. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2896. [PMID: 36833591 PMCID: PMC9957159 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Research conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed many unintended consequences of mandated safety precautions, including increased perpetration of intimate partner violence (IPV), increases in substance use, and worsening mental health conditions. We conducted a repeated, cross-sectional survey of survivors of IPV, a longitudinal survey of service providers working in an IPV shelter, and interviews with both. We conducted surveys at the beginning of the pandemic and nearly half a year later to assess mental health and, for clients, substance use. Results showed that two small samples of survivors living in the shelter in 2020 and 2021 experienced both mental health decline and increased use of substances. Qualitative data from in-depth interviews suggest that COVID-19-related restrictions mirrored survivors' experiences of power and control in violent relationships. Further, IPV service providers-essential workers during COVID-19-experienced stress associated with reports of burnout and mental fatigue. This study suggests that community-based organizations can help mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 on survivors of IPV but should avoid adding additional work for staff as service providers experienced mental and emotional stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- April Schweinhart
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, 4061 Powder Mill Road, Suite 350, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
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Intimate Partner Violence Among South Asian Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Prevalence and Risk Factors. J Immigr Minor Health 2023:10.1007/s10903-023-01454-9. [PMID: 36745278 PMCID: PMC9901397 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-023-01454-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to understand the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) among South Asian women during COVID-19, and to identify predictors of IPV presence and severity. We recruited South Asian women (n = 132) to complete an online survey about their mood, experiences with COVID-19, and IPV. 47% of South Asian women (n = 132) reported experiencing any IPV, most commonly economic abuse. Women experiencing IPV had higher rates of COVID-19 related worry (t=-1.3, p = .001) and anxiety (t=-2.2, p = .027). The following variables were associated with greater odds of experiencing IPV: COVID-19 related worry (OR: 1.44 [1.11, 1.87]) and full-time employment status (OR: 0.13 [0.02, 0.99]). Depressive symptoms were a significant positive predictor of economic abuse severity (b = 0.80, p = .002). Future research should examine cultural and environmental factors that interact with the experience of IPV among South Asian women to better inform interventions for survivors.
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Ferreira RJ, Buttell F. A Global South Perspective: The Intersection of COVID-19 and Intimate Partner Violence. Am J Public Health 2023; 113:136-137. [PMID: 36413702 PMCID: PMC9850614 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2022.307144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Regardt J Ferreira
- Regardt J. Ferreira is with the Disaster Resilience Leadership Academy, Tulane School of Social Work, New Orleans, LA, and Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa. Fred Buttell is with the Tulane School of Social Work and the University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Fred Buttell
- Regardt J. Ferreira is with the Disaster Resilience Leadership Academy, Tulane School of Social Work, New Orleans, LA, and Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa. Fred Buttell is with the Tulane School of Social Work and the University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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Imaging and Non-imaging Findings of Intimate Partner Violence on the Trauma Service: A Retrospective Analysis of Two Level 1 Trauma Centers. Acad Radiol 2023; 30:312-321. [PMID: 35597753 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2022.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious public health issue. This study aims to characterize IPV-related injuries in trauma patients presenting to emergency departments (ED) who required hospitalization. MATERIALS AND METHODS Trauma registries of two Level 1 trauma centers were searched for assault-related ED visits by adults reporting "abuse" over 3 and 5 years to identify IPV victims. Imaging and electronic medical records were reviewed for demographics, injury type, hospital stay, and previous or subsequent presentations for presumed IPV. RESULTS Twenty-nine of 18,465 (0.2%) individuals seen on the trauma service had reported IPV. Majority were women (90%, mean age 37) and Caucasian (69%), over 50% had psychiatric or substance use comorbidities, and 45% reported prior IPV. Blunt trauma (22/29) was more common than penetrating trauma. Soft tissue injuries dominated when including both radiologic and non-radiologic findings. Excluding two patients who were not imaged, most frequent injuries identified on imaging were to the head/face (14/27), followed by the chest (9/27; mainly rib fractures), upper extremity and abdomen (7/27 each). All spinal fractures involved the upper lumbar spine. Synchronous injuries to multiple body regions were common, particularly craniofacial and upper extremity. Twenty-eight of 29 patients scored a grade 3-4 on the IPV severity grading scale. Eight (28%) patients required intensive care unit -level care. One patient passed. Four (14%) patients had prior IPV-related ED presentations. CONCLUSION While craniofacial and soft tissue injuries dominate, IPV can also result in serious thoracoabdominal, extremity and spinal injuries, even death. Multisystem injuries are common with synchronous craniofacial and upper extremity injuries being the most common combination.
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McKinlay AR, Simon YR, May T, Fancourt D, Burton A. How did UK social distancing restrictions affect the lives of women experiencing intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic? A qualitative exploration of survivor views. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:123. [PMID: 36653799 PMCID: PMC9845821 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-14987-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased numbers of domestic abuse cases were reported at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people experiencing abuse faced barriers to seeking support with service closures affecting the sector. Available evidence suggests women are overrepresented in the reported cases of intimate partner violence (IPV) and we aimed to learn more about how their lives were impacted by social distancing restrictions. METHODS We conducted an online qualitative interview study, using reflexive thematic analysis. Interviews were conducted between April 2021 and March 2022. 18 women in the UK with past experiences of IPV provided informed consent and participated in this study. RESULTS During the analysis, we identified five themes relating to the impact of lockdown restrictions on participants' lives, including: (1) Lockdown meant being confined to a place where abuse was escalating, (2) Barriers to accessing support, including "cancelled" services and missed opportunities to intervene during interactions in lockdown with frontline workers. (3) Increased feelings of fear, isolation, and loss of control, particularly during the early stages of the pandemic from the combination of abuse and pandemic-related changes to daily life. (4) Some forms of support were more accessible during the pandemic, such as provision of online psychological support and social groups. Participants also accessed new forms of support for the first time during the pandemic, in some cases sparked by posts and content on social media about abuse awareness. (5) For some, psychosocial wellbeing transformed during the pandemic, with several participants using the word "freedom" when reflecting on their experience of simultaneously escaping abuse and living through the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we explored the views of female survivors of IPV in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our results highlight the importance of combined public awareness campaigns and community intervention points for victims to safely seek help during social distancing restrictions. Having the time and space to reflect on healing after escaping abuse was described by women in our study as a benefit from their lives in lockdown, which is a factor that could be incorporated into future initiatives developed to support people subjected to violence and abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. R. McKinlay
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB UK
| | - Y. R. Simon
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB UK
| | - T. May
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB UK
| | - D. Fancourt
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB UK
| | - A. Burton
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB UK
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Tang A, Wong A, Khurana B. Update on the Role of Imaging in Detection of Intimate Partner Violence. Radiol Clin North Am 2023; 61:53-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rcl.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Pisl V, Vevera J, Štěpánek L, Volavka J. Changes in ambulance departures for assault calls during COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Aggress Behav 2023; 49:76-84. [PMID: 36305480 PMCID: PMC9874533 DOI: 10.1002/ab.22055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Restrictions related to COVID-19 changed the daily behavior of people, including the expression of violence. Although an increased incidence of violent behavior, especially domestic violence, was expected during the pandemic, retrospective analyses have yielded mixed results. Records of ambulance departures to address injuries caused by assaults in the Pilsen region, Czech Republic, during the restrictive measures during the national state of emergency were compared to data from 3 previous years using general linear models. The number and severity of assaults were analyzed for the whole sample and separately for patients of either sex, for residential or nonresidential locations, and for domestic violence. Controlling for the seasonal effects, the number of assaults decreased by 39% during the pandemic restrictions compared to the 3 previous years. No difference was found between the effects of restrictions on assaults resulting in an injury of a male or female patient. The decrease was specifically pronounced in the sample of assaults in nonresidential locations, while no effect of restrictions was observed in assaults in residential locations and domestic assaults. Pandemic restrictions were associated with a decreased incidence of violent assaults that required ambulance services. Although the incidence decreased especially in those assaulted outside of their homes, we found no support for an increase in domestic violence or violence against women. Pandemic restrictions may have served as a protective rather than a risk factor for assaults severe enough to warrant a call for ambulance services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vojtech Pisl
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital in PilsenCharles UniversityPlzeňCzech Republic
| | - Jan Vevera
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital in PilsenCharles UniversityPlzeňCzech Republic,Department of PsychiatryInstitute for Postgraduate Medical EducationPragueCzech Republic
| | - Lubomír Štěpánek
- Institute of Biophysics and Informatics, First Faculty of MedicineCharles UniversityPlzeňCzech Republic
| | - Jan Volavka
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital in PilsenCharles UniversityPlzeňCzech Republic,Department of Psychiatry, School of MedicineNew York University (Emeritus)New YorkNew YorkUSA
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Gosangi B, Wong A, Gujrathi R, Park H, Thomas R, Lewis-O’Connor A, Stoklosa HM, Khurana B. Imaging patterns of thoracic injuries in survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). Emerg Radiol 2023; 30:71-84. [PMID: 36418488 PMCID: PMC9684831 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-022-02097-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To recognize the imaging patterns of thoracic injuries in survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective radiological review of 688 patients self-reporting IPV to our institution's violence intervention and prevention program between January 2013 and June 2018 identified 30 patients with 89 thoracic injuries. Imaging and demographic data were collected. RESULTS Thirty survivors with 89 injuries to the thorax were identified with a median age of 43.5 years (21-65 years). IPV was reported or disclosed as the direct cause of injury in 50% (15/30) of survivors, including all nine patients who sustained penetrating injuries. The most common injury type was fracture (72%, 64/89) with 52 rib, 3 sternal, 2 clavicular, and 7 vertebral fractures. There were 3 acromioclavicular dislocations. Among rib fractures, right lower anterior rib fractures (9-12 ribs) were the most common(30%, 16/52). There were 10 superficial soft tissue injuries. There were 12 deep tissue injuries which included 2 lung contusions, 2 pneumomediastinum, 7 pneumothoraces, 1 hemothorax. One third of patients had concomitant injuries of other organ systems, most commonly to the head and face, followed by extremities and one third of patients had metachronous injuries. CONCLUSION Acute rib fractures with concomitant injuries to the head, neck, face, and extremities with an unclear mechanism of injury should prompt the radiologist to discuss the possibility of IPV with the ordering physician. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE Recognizing common injuries to the thorax will prompt the radiologists to suspect IPV and discuss it with the clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babina Gosangi
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
| | - Andrew Wong
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Rahul Gujrathi
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Hyesun Park
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Richard Thomas
- Department of Radiology, Lahey Health System, Burlington, MA USA
| | - Annie Lewis-O’Connor
- C.A.R.E. Clinic (Coordinated Approach to Resiliency & Empowerment) Founder and Director, Brigham and Womens Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Hanni M. Stoklosa
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Bharti Khurana
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115 USA ,Founder and Director, Trauma Imaging Research and Innovation Center, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
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47
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Pitis A, Diamantopoulou M, Tzavella F. The Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic and Social Determinants of Health on the Prevalence of Intimate Partner Violence. A Systematic Review. Mater Sociomed 2023; 35:295-303. [PMID: 38380279 PMCID: PMC10875957 DOI: 10.5455/msm.2023.35.295-303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The pandemic has increased the rates of violent behavior towards women by their partners worldwide. Increased time spent living with the abusive partner, working at home and limited social contact combined with socioeconomic characteristics contributed to the increase in this type of violence. Objective To investigate the impact of pandemic COVID-19 and social determinants of health (SDOH) on the intimate partner violence (IPV) experienced by women from their partners. Methods A systematic review was conducted to investigate the impact of COVID-19 and social determinants of health on violence experienced by women from their partner(s) as a consequence of incarceration. The Pubmed and Scopus databases were searched during December 2022, using the keywords "intimate partner violence", "women", "COVID-19", "socioeconomic factors", "social determinants of health". Results Of the 917 studies initially retrieved, 38 studies found an increased prevalence of women's reported violence by their partners, 10 found a low prevalence, and 9 found no difference in prevalence before and during restraint. The most common forms of violence were psychological, physical and sexual. In 30 studies, social determinants such as socioeconomic level, education and living conditions were found to be associated with the prevalence of violence. Conclusion There was an increase in violence against women during quarantine which was associated with the effect of social determinants. However, due to research limitations of the studies, additional research is needed to draw firm conclusions that can be generalized to the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Pitis
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, University of Peloponnese, Tripoli, Greece
| | - Maria Diamantopoulou
- Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Foteini Tzavella
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, University of Peloponnese, Tripoli, Greece
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Domínguez D JF, Truong J, Burnett J, Satyen L, Akhlaghi H, Stella J, Rushworth N, Caeyenberghs K. Effects of the Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic on Assault-Related Head Injury in Melbourne: A Retrospective Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:63. [PMID: 36612383 PMCID: PMC9819794 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Assault is the leading preventable cause of death, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and associated mental health problems. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on patterns of interpersonal violence across the world. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we analysed medical records of 1232 assault victims (domestic violence: 111, random assault: 900, prison assault: 221) with head injuries who presented to the emergency department (ED) at St Vincent's Hospital in Melbourne, Australia, a city with one of the longest and most severe COVID-19 restrictions worldwide. We examined changes in prevalence in the assault group overall and in domestic violence, random assault, and prison assault victims, comparing data from 19.5 months before and after the first day of COVID-19 restrictions in Melbourne. Moreover, we investigated differences driven by demographic factors (Who: age group, sex, and nationality) and clinical variables (Where: assault location, and When: time of arrival to the ED and time from moment of injury until presentation at ED). Descriptive statistics and chi-square analyses were performed. We found the COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the Where of assault-related TBI, with a shift in the location of assaults from the street to the home, and the increase at home being driven by random assaults on middle-aged adults. Overall, we observed that 86% of the random assault cases were males, whereas 74% of the domestic assault cases were females. Meanwhile, nearly half (44%) of the random assault victims reported alcohol consumption versus a fifth (20%) of domestic violence victims. These findings will have direct implications for developing screening tools and better preventive and ameliorative interventions to manage the sequelae of assault TBI, particularly in the context of future large-scale health crises or emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan F Domínguez D
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Johnny Truong
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Jake Burnett
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Lata Satyen
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Hamed Akhlaghi
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
- Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3065, Australia
| | - Julian Stella
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Geelong Hospital, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | | | - Karen Caeyenberghs
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
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49
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Al-Ajlouni YA, Al Ta'ani O, Shamaileh G, Mushasha R, Makarem N, Duncan DT. Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on sleep health among Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) populations: a systematic review of the literature. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e066964. [PMID: 36600378 PMCID: PMC9729847 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study sought to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sleep health among Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) populations, understudied geographic regions including with regards to sleep health. SETTING A systematic literature search of studies published from inception to 27 March 2022 was conducted on multiple databases using developed keywords. PARTICIPANTS Studies were included if they (1) investigated one or more aspects/dimensions of sleep health as an outcome (eg, sleep duration, sleep quality, sleep problems); (2) measured the impact of a COVID-19 pandemic-related domain (eg, impact of quarantine, work from home, lifestyle changes); (3) focused on at least one MENA region population; (4) were peer-reviewed; (5) included ≥100 participants; (6) were written in English and (7) had full-text article publicly available. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES MEASURED Primary outcomes were sleep duration, sleep quality and sleep problems. RESULTS In line with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, 164 studies were included for data extraction. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale for cross-sectional studies was used to assess the quality of the studies. Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted sleep duration, sleep quality and presence and severity of sleep disorders in MENA populations, including adults, children, students, healthcare workers and people with chronic illnesses. The directionality and strength of associations, as well as the determinants of sleep health, varied by subpopulations. CONCLUSIONS Longitudinal studies are needed to understand the longer-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sleep health of MENA populations. Sleep health interventions and policy measures should be tailored to the need of each subpopulation. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022321128.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazan A Al-Ajlouni
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Omar Al Ta'ani
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Health System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ghaith Shamaileh
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | | | - Nour Makarem
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Dustin T Duncan
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
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50
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Al-Sejari MM, Al-Ma'seb HB. Aggression and violence during the lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in Kuwait. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2022; 10:100408. [PMID: 35996454 PMCID: PMC9385344 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2022.100408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The lives of the global population have been drastically altered since the emergence of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. These changes comprise their daily lifestyle practices and the professional, and educational systems. In addition to these changes, many psychological illnesses issues have been detected globally. Methods This study aimed to investigate whether there are significant sociodemographic differences in reported cases of physical and verbal aggression, anger, hostility, and violence among 815 Kuwaiti residents during the lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. A non-random sample was recruited through the WhatsApp platform. The online survey contained sociodemographic information and 29 self-reported items rated on a Likert scale. In addition to demographic questions, online questionnaires included the Aggression Questionnaire (AQ). Questions regarding violence and COVID-19 infection were included in the online survey. Results Men, younger people, those who were single or divorced, students, and those with a lower level of education were more likely to report more instances of physical and verbal aggression, as well as hostility. Conclusions To assist psychologically vulnerable individuals in overcoming the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial to develop community-based strategies that are tailored to the specific conditions and cultural traditions of each country. Diverse strategies for mental health support programs administered by social workers and mental health professionals are required to reduce aggression and violence levels. Since this study is a cross-sectional survey conducted during the total lockdown, it is difficult to conclude that the lockdown provoked the escalation of the aggression.
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