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Culyba A, Ragavan MI, Miller E. Supporting Youth Exposed to Violence in the Post-Pandemic: Prevention and Intervention Strategies. Pediatr Clin North Am 2024; 71:567-581. [PMID: 39003002 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic was a public health emergency that impacted adolescents across the United States and disproportionately affected youth experiencing marginalization due to less access to resources and supports. This study reviews the increases in intimate partner and youth violence during the pandemic, mechanisms contributing to these increases, and the overarching health impacts on adolescents. Pediatric health professionals have a vital role to play in implementing healing-centered practices and prevention efforts that mitigate impacts of trauma and violence and that support youth and families in pathways to healing and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Culyba
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Maya I Ragavan
- UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Division of General Academic Pediatrics, Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3414 5th Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Elizabeth Miller
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, 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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Penrose K, Abraham A, Robertson M, Berry A, Xi Jasmine Chan B, Shen Y, Srivastava A, Balasubramanian S, Yadav S, Piltch-Loeb R, Nash D, Parcesepe AM. The association between emotional and physical intimate partner violence and COVID-19 vaccine uptake in a community-based U.S. Cohort. Prev Med Rep 2024; 43:102784. [PMID: 38938628 PMCID: PMC11209635 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2024.102784] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To estimate risk of being unvaccinated against COVID-19 by experience of intimate partner violence (IPV). Methods Among 3,343 partnered individuals in a community-based U.S. cohort, we quantified emotional and physical IPV experienced between March and December 2020 and estimated risk of being unvaccinated against COVID-19 through June 2021 by experience of IPV. Experience of recent IPV was defined as endorsement of more frequent or severe IPV since the start of the pandemic or report of any past-month IPV in at least one of four follow-up surveys conducted by the end of December 2020. We created a three-level composite variable - no experience of IPV, experience of emotional but not physical IPV, and experience of physical IPV. Results Cisgender women, non-binary, or transgender individuals who reported experiencing emotional, but not physical, IPV and those who reported experiencing physical IPV were both at significantly higher risk of being unvaccinated for COVID-19 compared to those who reported experiencing no IPV (ARRemotional violence: 1.28 [95 % CI: 1.09 - 1.51]; ARRphysical violence: 1.70 [95 % CI: 1.41 - 2.05]). Cisgender men who reported experiencing physical IPV were also at significantly higher risk of being unvaccinated for COVID-19 (ARRphysical violence: 1.52 [95 % CI: 1.15 - 2.02]). Conclusions IPV may increase the risk of low vaccine uptake. Results highlight the need to incorporate IPV prevention and support into public health responses, with targeted resources and consideration for reducing barriers to public health interventions among those impacted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Penrose
- City University of New York (CUNY), Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
| | - Ansu Abraham
- University of Michigan, School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - McKaylee Robertson
- City University of New York (CUNY), Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
| | - Amanda Berry
- City University of New York (CUNY), Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
| | - Bai Xi Jasmine Chan
- City University of New York (CUNY), Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
| | - Yanhan Shen
- City University of New York (CUNY), Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
- City University of New York (CUNY), Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, New York, NY, USA
| | - Avantika Srivastava
- City University of New York (CUNY), Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
- City University of New York (CUNY), Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, New York, NY, USA
| | - Subha Balasubramanian
- City University of New York (CUNY), Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Surabhi Yadav
- City University of New York (CUNY), Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
- City University of New York (CUNY), Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachael Piltch-Loeb
- City University of New York (CUNY), Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
- City University of New York (CUNY), Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Department of Environmental Occupational and Geospatial Health Sciences, New York, NY, USA
| | - Denis Nash
- City University of New York (CUNY), Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), New York, NY, USA
- City University of New York (CUNY), Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, New York, NY, USA
| | - Angela M. Parcesepe
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Department of Maternal and Child Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Population Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Mojahed A, Mack JT, Staudt A, Weise V, Shiva L, Chandra P, Garthus-Niegel S. Prevalence and risk factors of intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic: Results from the population-based study DREAMCORONA. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306103. [PMID: 38935801 PMCID: PMC11210879 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examines the 12-month prevalence rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization, including psychological, physical, and sexual forms, in women and men. It also aims to identify changes in IPV victimization during the COVID-19 pandemic and to explore factors associated with the occurrence of any IPV victimization during this period. METHODS Data from the DREAMCORONA study in Germany collected from May 2020 to February 2021 included 737 participants, i.e., (expectant) mothers (64%) and fathers (36%). The Revised Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS2S) short form was used to assess the 12-month IPV victimization. Prevalence of IPV victimization as well as changes in IPV victimization during the pandemic were analyzed descriptively, with results stratified by sex. Multiple logistic regression was employed to identify risk factors for IPV. RESULTS Psychological IPV was found to be the most prevalent form of violence, with the occurrence of any psychological IPV affecting 48.5% of women and 39.4% of men, while 2.6% of women and 3.3% of men reported the occurrence of any physical IPV victimization, and 2.8% of women and 1.5% of men reported the occurrence of any sexual IPV victimization. Of those who experienced the occurrence of any IPV in the last 12 months, 89.7% of women and 89.8% of men were victimized by one single act of violence. The majority of affected participants reported no change in psychological and physical IPV victimization during the pandemic. Nevertheless, for certain IPV behaviors on the psychological and physical IPV victimization subscales, both affected women and men also reported higher frequencies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Multiple logistic regression revealed that higher levels of relationship satisfaction were negatively associated with the occurrence of any IPV victimization for women and men, whereas greater levels of own anger-hostility symptoms were positively associated with the occurrence of any IPV victimization. CONCLUSIONS Psychological IPV was present in almost every second (expectant) couple. The majority of affected women and men reported no change in their psychological and physical IPV victimization, suggesting that they continued to experience IPV during the pandemic. This underlines the importance of promoting healthier relationship dynamics, coping strategies, and emotional well-being to reduce the risk of IPV, even in times of crisis. Our study sheds light on the early stages of the pandemic and highlights the ongoing need for research into the temporal dynamics of IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amera Mojahed
- Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Judith T. Mack
- Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Andreas Staudt
- Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Methods in Community Medicine, Institute of Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Victoria Weise
- Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Prabha Chandra
- National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Susan Garthus-Niegel
- Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Systems Medicine, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Childhood and Families, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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Lin SC, Chang KSG, Marjavi A, Chon KY, Dichter ME, DuBois Palardy J. Intimate Partner Violence and Human Trafficking Screening and Services in Primary Care Across Underserved Communities in the United States-Initial Examination of Trends, 2020-2021. Public Health Rep 2024:333549241239886. [PMID: 38562004 DOI: 10.1177/00333549241239886] [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: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) began collecting data on intimate partner violence (IPV) and human trafficking (HT) in the 2020 Uniform Data System (UDS). We examined patients affected by IPV and HT served by HRSA-funded health centers in medically underserved US communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We established a baseline and measured trends in patient care by analyzing data from the 2020 (N = 28 590 897) and 2021 (N = 30 193 278) UDS. We conducted longitudinal ordinal logistic regression analyses to assess the association of care trends and organization-level and patient characteristics using proportional odds ratios (PORs) and 95% CIs. RESULTS The number of clinical visits for patients affected by IPV and HT decreased by 29.4% and 88.3%, respectively, from 2020 to 2021. Health centers serving a higher (vs lower) percentage of pediatric patients were more likely to continuously serve patients affected by IPV (POR = 2.58; 95% CI, 1.01-6.61) and HT (POR = 6.14; 95% CI, 2.06-18.29). Health centers serving (vs not serving) patients affected by IPV were associated with a higher percentage of patients who had limited English proficiency (POR = 1.77; 95% CI, 1.02-3.05) and Medicaid beneficiaries (POR = 2.88; 95% CI, 1.48-5.62), whereas health centers serving (vs not serving) patients affected by HT were associated with a higher percentage of female patients of reproductive age (POR = 15.89; 95% CI, 1.61-157.38) and urban settings (POR = 1.74; 95% CI, 1.26-2.37). CONCLUSIONS The number of clinical visits for patients affected by IPV and HT during the COVID-19 pandemic declined. Delayed care will pose challenges for future health care needs of these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sue C Lin
- Bureau of Primary Health Care Office of Quality Improvement, Health Resources and Services Administration, US Department of Health and Human Services, Rockville, MD, USA
| | | | - Anna Marjavi
- Futures Without Violence, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Katherine Y Chon
- Office of Trafficking in Persons, Administration for Children and Families, US Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Melissa E Dichter
- Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Temple University School of Social Work, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Scott SE, Lavage DR, Risser L, Gonzalez Bockinski S, Miller E, Ragavan MI. Economic Abuse and Help-Seeking Intentions Among Adolescents. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024; 39:107-132. [PMID: 37599430 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231194640] [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: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Economic adolescent relationship abuse (ARA) includes coercive behaviors leading to interference with education, employment, and finances. To date, no study has examined help seeking among adolescents and young adults if they were to experience economic ARA. The goals of this article include examining: (a) help-seeking intentions of adolescents regarding economic ARA; (b) help-seeking sources and reasons for not seeking help; and (c) differences in help-seeking intentions based on age, race/ethnicity, gender identity, and experiences of economic ARA. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of adolescents ages 13-19 focused on economic ARA experiences and help seeking. We performed descriptive statistics of help-seeking intentions, sources, and barriers. We utilized logistic regression, adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, and gender identity, to explore associations between economic ARA victimization and help-seeking intentions. Of 2,852 participants, 56% said they would seek help for economic ARA. Adolescents with positive help-seeking intentions shared that they would seek help from their parents (43%) or friends (35%). Those less likely to seek help were concerned about others finding out (32%), not being believed (31%), or authority figures being notified (31%). Help-seeking intentions were lower among Black/African American adolescents (aOR = 0.55, CI [0.43, 0.70]) and Multiracial adolescents (aOR = 0.26, CI [0.16, 0.42]) compared to White adolescents. Help-seeking intentions were higher among gender diverse adolescents (aOR = 5.78, CI [2.98, 11.22]) and those ages 15-17 years (aOR = 1.84, CI [1.36, 2.47]) compared to those identifying as female and ages 18-19 years. Help-seeking intentions were lower among adolescents who experienced economic ARA (aOR = 0.61, CI [0.51, 0.72]). While the majority of adolescents reported that they would seek help if they experienced economic ARA, those who had experienced economic ARA were less likely to report intentions to seek help. Supportive interventions for adolescents experiencing economic ARA are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Scott
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA, USA
| | | | - Lauren Risser
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA, USA
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Miller SL, Fleury-Steiner R, Camphausen LC, Wells SA, Horney JA. Lessons Learned From the COVID-19 Pandemic in the United States by Domestic Violence Coalition Leaders. Violence Against Women 2023:10778012231220369. [PMID: 38087424 DOI: 10.1177/10778012231220369] [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: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
This U.S. study explores lessons learned about domestic violence service delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic identified by state, territory, and tribal coalition leadership to advance preparedness and guide structural improvements for future disasters. Semi-structured interviews with 25 Coalition leaders identified public health control measures and victim-centered strategies used to mitigate the pandemic's impacts on services and advocacy. Three main themes emerged: workforce innovations, system empowerment, and the simultaneous pandemic of racial injustice. The COVID-19 pandemic inspired Coalitions to respond creatively and highlighted resources needed to support survivors and the domestic violence (DV) workforce going forward, including reassessing the current state of the DV movement.
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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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Ragavan MI, Murray A. Supporting Intimate Partner Violence Survivors and Their Children in Pediatric Healthcare Settings. Pediatr Clin North Am 2023; 70:1069-1086. [PMID: 37865431 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2023.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pervasive public health epidemic that influences child health and thriving. In this article, we discuss how pediatric healthcare providers and systems can create healing-centered spaces to support IPV survivors and their children. We review the use of universal education and resource provision to share information about IPV during all clinical encounters as a healing-centered alternative to screening. We also review how to support survivors who may share experiences of IPV, focused on validation, affirmation, and connection to resources. Clinicians are provided key action items to implement in their clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya I Ragavan
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 3414 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| | - Ashlee Murray
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital of Pennsylvania, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Horney JA, Fleury-Steiner R, Camphausen LC, Wells SA, Miller SL. Characterizing the impacts of public health control measures on domestic violence services: qualitative interviews with domestic violence coalition leaders. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1721. [PMID: 37667284 PMCID: PMC10478408 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16471-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior to the availability of pharmaceutical control measures, non-pharmaceutical control measures, including travel restrictions, physical distancing, isolation and quarantine, closure of schools and workplaces, and the use of personal protective equipment were the only tools available to public health authorities to control the spread of COVID-19. The implementation of these non-pharmaceutical control measures had unintended impacts on the ability of state and territorial domestic violence coalitions to provide services to victims. METHODS A semi-structured interview guide to assess how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted service provision and advocacy generally, and how COVID-19 control measures specifically, created barriers to services and advocacy, was developed, pilot tested, and revised based on feedback. Interviews with state and territorial domestic violence coalition executive directors were conducted between November 2021 and March 2022. Transcripts were inductively and deductively coded using both hand-coding and qualitative software. RESULTS Forty-five percent (25 of 56) of state and territorial domestic violence coalition executive directors representing all 8 National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) regions were interviewed. Five themes related to the use of non-pharmaceutical pandemic control measures with impacts on the provision of services and advocacy were identified. CONCLUSIONS The use of non-pharmaceutical control measures early in the COVID-19 pandemic had negative impacts on the health and safety of some vulnerable groups, including domestic violence victims. Organizations that provide services and advocacy to victims faced many unique challenges in carrying out their missions while adhering to required public health control measures. Policy and preparedness plan changes are needed to prevent unintended consequences of control measure implementation among vulnerable groups as well as to identify lessons learned that should be applied in future disasters and emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Horney
- Epidemiology Program, University of Delaware, 100 Discovery Blvd, Room 731, Newark, DE 19713 USA
| | - Ruth Fleury-Steiner
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Delaware, 118 Alison Hall, Newark, DE 19716 USA
| | - Lauren C. Camphausen
- Epidemiology Program, University of Delaware, 100 Discovery Blvd, Room 731, Newark, DE 19713 USA
| | - Sarah A. Wells
- Epidemiology Program, University of Delaware, 100 Discovery Blvd, Room 731, Newark, DE 19713 USA
| | - Susan L. Miller
- Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, University of Delaware, 335 Smith Hall, Newark, DE 19716 USA
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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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Alexander KA, Miller E. Sexual Violence-Another Public Health Emergency. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2236285. [PMID: 36264582 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.36285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Miller
- Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Lipp NS, Johnson NL. The impact of COVID-19 on domestic violence agency functioning: A case study. THE JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES 2022; 79:JOSI12549. [PMID: 36249553 PMCID: PMC9538010 DOI: 10.1111/josi.12549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Initial evidence suggests that rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) increased at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, much of the prevalence research has focused on survivors' experiences of IPV during the initial lockdown period from March to June 2020. The current study adds to this initial research by centering the experience of a domestic violence agency located in the United States, 3-months prior to, during, and after the COVID-19 lockdown. The results suggest a similar pattern across service utilization (e.g., total clients served, calls, safe house capacity) and survivor demographics (e.g., race/ethnicity, cisgender women and men), with an initial decrease in service utilization from pre-lockdown to lockdown and an increase, surpassing pre-lockdown, post-lockdown. The only deviations from this pattern of service utilization were for sexual minority individuals, whose service utilization continued to decline post-lockdown and Asian American/Pacific Islander and trans/gender-nonbinary survivors who rarely utilized services across the time period. Additionally, the domestic violence agency relied heavily on their existing finances, well-rounded staff training, and staff wellbeing throughout the pandemic. The unique challenges that COVID-19 provided demanded flexibility, increased technological utilization, and additional funding particularly for safe housing. Implications for future research, intervention, and policy change are provided below.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natania S. Lipp
- Department of Education and Human ServicesLehigh UniversityBethlehemPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Nicole L. Johnson
- Department of Education and Human ServicesLehigh UniversityBethlehemPennsylvaniaUSA
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Renov V, Risser L, Berger R, Hurley T, Villaveces A, DeGue S, Katz A, Henderson C, Premo K, Talis J, Chang JC, Ragavan M. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on child protective services caseworkers and administrators. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 130:105431. [PMID: 34953611 PMCID: PMC8665526 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted children and young people experiencing child abuse and neglect. Child Protective Services (CPS) has played an important role in supporting children and families during the COVID-19 pandemic. Few studies to-date have evaluated the impact of the pandemic on CPS caseworkers and administrators in the United States. OBJECTIVES We conducted interviews to explore CPS caseworkers' and administrators' experiences working and serving families during the pandemic. METHODS Participants were U.S.-based CPS caseworkers and administrators. We conducted semi-structured virtual interviews with participants and used an inductive thematic analysis approach. RESULTS We conducted 37 interviews. Participants discussed how the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way they conduct investigations and provide services to families in the CPS system. Several services were adapted to occur virtually, providing challenges and unique opportunities. Participants also described the personal barriers they faced during the pandemic, including working remotely, experiencing burnout, and challenges obtaining personal protective equipment. Finally, participants shared creative solutions they engaged in to support children and families during the COVID-19 pandemic, including expanding collaborations with other community-based organizations. DISCUSSION This study suggests the important role that CPS has played during the pandemic and challenges individual CPS workers felt, in terms of both experiencing burnout and difficulty obtaining personalized protective equipment. Inclusion of the CPS system in emergency preparedness planning for future pandemics or natural disasters will ensure continuation of these vital services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Renov
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, United States of America.
| | - Lauren Risser
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States.
| | - Rachel Berger
- Division of Child Advocacy, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, United States of America.
| | - Tammy Hurley
- Child Welfare, Trauma, and Resilience Initiatives, American Academy of Pediatrics, 345 Park Blvd. Itasca, IL 60413, United States.
| | - Andrés Villaveces
- Division of Violence Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, S106-10, Atlanta, GA 30341, United States.
| | - Sarah DeGue
- Division of Violence Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, S106-10, Atlanta, GA 30341, United States.
| | - Abigail Katz
- Futures Without Violence, 101 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA, 94129, United States.
| | - Cynterria Henderson
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States.
| | - Kelly Premo
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States.
| | - Janine Talis
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States.
| | - Judy C Chang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, and Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 300 Halket Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States.
| | - Maya Ragavan
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh, 3420 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States.
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Risser L, Berger RP, Renov V, Aboiye F, Duplessis V, Henderson C, Randell KA, Miller E, Ragavan MI. Supporting Children Experiencing Family Violence During the COVID-19 Pandemic: IPV and CPS Provider Perspectives. Acad Pediatr 2022; 22:842-849. [PMID: 35342034 PMCID: PMC8949658 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2022.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Children experiencing family violence (child abuse and neglect and exposure to intimate partner violence) are at a particularly elevated risk for compounding challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, we interviewed intimate partner violence (IPV) advocates, child protective services (CPS) caseworkers, and IPV and CPS administrators on the needs of children experiencing family violence during the pandemic. METHODS We conducted semistructured interviews with IPV advocates, CPS caseworkers, and IPV and CPS administrators. Recruitment occurred through emails to national and state listservs, networks of the study team, and word of mouth. Interviews were completed through Zoom, took 45 to 60 minutes and were audio recorded. We used a mixed deductive-inductive content analysis approach. RESULTS Fifty-nine IPV advocates, 35 IPV administrators, 21 CPS workers and 16 CPS administrators participated in this study. Four themes emerged from this work. Participants discussed the role of social isolation, school closures, and distance learning on children experiencing family violence. They also noted child custody and visitation challenges, particularly in the context of abusive partners using custody to control IPV survivors and limitations to virtual visitation more broadly. Compounding challenges were described for children from marginalized communities due to structural-level inequities. Collaboration was discussed by participants from both IPV and CPS sectors. CONCLUSION This study is one of the first to describe the way the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted children experiencing family violence. Future studies should triangulate these results with children, families, and other child-serving providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Risser
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh (L Risser, C Henderson, and E Miller), Pittsburgh, Pa
| | - Rachel P. Berger
- Division of Child Advocacy, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (RP Berger), Pittsburgh Pa
| | - Veronica Renov
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (V Renov), Pittsburgh, Pa
| | - Fatimah Aboiye
- Child Welfare, Trauma, and Resilience Initiatives, American Academy of Pediatrics (F Aboiye), Itasca, Ill
| | | | - Cynterria Henderson
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh (L Risser, C Henderson, and E Miller), Pittsburgh, Pa
| | - Kimberly A. Randell
- Division of Emergency Medicine (KA Randell), Kansas City, Mo,University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine (KA Randell), University of Kansas School of Medicine, Salina
| | - Elizabeth Miller
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh (L Risser, C Henderson, and E Miller), Pittsburgh, Pa
| | - Maya I. Ragavan
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh (M Ragavan), Pittsburgh, PA,Address correspondence to Maya I. Ragavan, MD, MPH, MS, University of Pittsburgh, 3414 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh PA 15213
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Ragavan MI, Miller E. Healing-Centered Care for Intimate Partner Violence Survivors and Their Children. Pediatrics 2022; 149:185449. [PMID: 35314863 PMCID: PMC9951813 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-056980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maya I. Ragavan
- Divisions of General Academic Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Elizabeth Miller
- Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Murugan V, Weaver TL, Schafer T, Rich Q. Crisis Work Embedded in a Global Crisis: The Early Phase Impact of COVID-19 on Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence and Service Provisions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19084728. [PMID: 35457594 PMCID: PMC9025127 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19, as a global pandemic, was a public health inflection point for individuals affected by intimate partner violence (IPV) and those who provide IPV services. Public health guidelines that were intended to reduce risk of exposure to the virus impacted vulnerability factors for IPV survivors and associated systems of services. We aimed to (1) explore the effect of COVID-19 on survivors of IPV; (2) assess the effect of COVID-19 on IPV-related service provisions and service providers; and (3) explore challenges and opportunities in the wake of COVID-19 on broader IPV services and advocacy. METHOD Twelve directors of IPV shelter, criminal justice, and other advocacy services within a diverse, Midwestern metropolitan area were recruited to participate in in-depth, semi-structured interviews in June-August 2020. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using Dedoose. Data were coded and analyzed through thematic analysis. RESULTS Four major themes, contextualized by COVID-19 and racial injustice, emerged from the data analysis: (1) IPV-related trends; (2) impact on IPV survivors, services, and agency morale; (3) inter-agency collaborations; and (4) future opportunities for innovative service delivery. Gaps and opportunities for developing culturally congruent, trauma-informed services were identified. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that responsive and accessible IPV resources and associated advocacy services can make the difference between life and death for survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vithya Murugan
- School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA; (T.S.); (Q.R.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Terri L. Weaver
- Department of Psychology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA;
| | - Theresa Schafer
- School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA; (T.S.); (Q.R.)
| | - Quin Rich
- School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA; (T.S.); (Q.R.)
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Garcia R, Henderson C, Randell K, Villaveces A, Katz A, Abioye F, DeGue S, Premo K, Miller-Wallfish S, Chang JC, Miller E, Ragavan MI. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Intimate Partner Violence Advocates and Agencies. JOURNAL OF FAMILY VIOLENCE 2022; 37:893-906. [PMID: 34720393 PMCID: PMC8547898 DOI: 10.1007/s10896-021-00337-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Relatively few studies have considered the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on intimate partner violence (IPV) advocates or the agencies where they work. In this study, based on United States IPV advocates' experiences working with survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted interviews to explore: 1) personal challenges and resilience working as IPV advocates during the COVID-19 pandemic; 2) how agencies adapted to the pandemic to support IPV survivors and advocates; and 3) specific needs and challenges of culturally-specific agencies. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 53 IPV advocates from June to November 2020. Participants were included if they worked directly with survivors, identified as an IPV advocate, worked at a US-based agency, and spoke and understood English. We created a sampling matrix to ensure adequate representation from IPV advocates serving survivors from communities which have been marginalized. Interviews were conducted through a virtual platform by a trained member of the research team. We used an inductive thematic analysis approach, with weekly coding meetings to resolve discrepancies in coding. Five themes emerged from the data: 1) IPV advocates described how working as an IPV advocate during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted them personally; 2) agencies developed new methods of addressing IPV advocates' needs; 3) agencies developed new solutions to address pandemic-related client needs; 4) transitioning advocacy work to virtual formats created challenges but also opportunities and; 5) pandemic limitations and impacts compounded pre-pandemic challenges for culturally specific agencies. IPV advocates are frontline workers who have played essential roles in adjusting services to meet survivor needs during the COVID-19 pandemic while simultaneously coping with pandemic impacts on themselves and their agencies. Developing inter-agency collaborations and promoting advocates' safety and wellbeing during future public health crises will help support IPV survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Garcia
- Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh, PO Box 9024, Pittsburgh, PA 15224 USA
| | - Cynterria Henderson
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Kimberly Randell
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, 2401 Gillham Rd, Kansas City, MO 64110 USA
- University of Kansas City-Missouri School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO USA
- University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS USA
| | - Andrés Villaveces
- Division of Violence Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway., S106-10, Atlanta, GA 30341 USA
| | - Abbey Katz
- Futures Without Violence, 101 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94129 USA
| | - Fatimah Abioye
- Child Welfare, Trauma, and Resilience Initiatives, American Academy of Pediatrics, 345 Park Blvd, Itasca, IL 60413 USA
| | - Sarah DeGue
- Division of Violence Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway., S106-10, Atlanta, GA 30341 USA
| | - Kelley Premo
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Summer Miller-Wallfish
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Judy C. Chang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, and Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 300 Halket Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Elizabeth Miller
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 120 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Maya I. Ragavan
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh, 3420 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
- University of Pittsburgh, 3415 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
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