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Background: Worldwide, 10% of postpartum women experience postpartum depression, which can lead to diverse sequalae at individual, family, and societal levels. In sub-Saharan Africa, it is estimated that 17% of women experience depression in the postpartum period, which could be an underestimate as 48% of women in the region do not receive postnatal care (81% in Ethiopia and 51% in Guinea) and a large share of postpartum depression remains undiagnosed and untreated as a result. Globally, despite a critical evidence gap, there are growing reports of postpartum depression among women mistreated (disrespected and abused) during childbirth in health facilities, making a strong case to examine the association between mistreatment and postpartum depression. This study in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) and Conakry (Guinea) uses a mixed methods design to 1) examine the link between mistreatment and postpartum depression, 2) explore the health system capacity to provide respectful maternity care and maternal mental health services, and 3) explore the experiences of women in accessing care and support for postpartum depression. Methods: We will conduct a prospective longitudinal survey of women (434 in Addis Ababa and 408 in Conakry) from the third trimester of pregnancy to eight weeks postpartum and carry out in-depth interviews with key health system informants (20–25 in each city) and women who recovered from a clinically confirmed episode of postpartum depression (15–25 in each city). Quantitative data from the women's survey will be analysed using a multilevel mixed-effects model; qualitative data from key-informants will be analysed by using a hybrid thematic analysis approach, whereas data from women's in-depth interviews will be analysed using the phenomenological approach. The inclusion of two different settings in our study (Addis Ababa and Conakry) will enable us to apply a comparative health systems lens to explore the dynamics of respectful maternity care and maternal mental health services within the broader health systems of the two countries (Ethiopia and Guinea). Discussion: The findings from this study will inform actions aimed at mitigating the mistreatment of women in maternity settings and improving promotive, preventive, and treatment interventions for postpartum depression in Ethiopia and Guinea. The findings can also be extrapolated to other low-resource settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personal resources and recovery actions to face trauma are known to impact the wellbeing of survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). Although acknowledged as a key component, scant research has been conducted on the recovery trajectories of survivors from Arab societies, especially in Palestinian citizens of Israel. This study examined the contribution of personal resources (empowerment related to safety, dispositional optimism, and potency) to engaging in steps toward recovery and ultimately thriving in 157 Palestinian citizens of Israel (PCI) victims of IPV. A Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach was applied to test a mediation model that estimated the extent to which personal resources (empowerment related to safety, dispositional optimism, and potency) predicted survivors' thriving directly and indirectly through the mediating variables of engagement in specific recovery actions. The model revealed direct associations between empowerment related to safety, dispositional optimism, potency, and thriving. Women's empowerment toward safety positively predicted thriving via establishing healing spaces. Contrary to predictions, although women's empowerment toward safety positively predicted women's engagement in connecting/sharing, women's connecting/sharing negatively predicted their thriving. These findings highlight the importance of women's personal resources by showcasing their strengths and the steps they take to enhance their thriving within the Israeli- Arab context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relatively little research has examined men's use of coercive controlling tactics against female partners after separation. This mixed-methods secondary analysis of 346 Canadian women documented coercive controlling tactics used by their ex-partners (86.4% identified at least one). The composite abuse scale emotional abuse subscale and women being older were associated with men using coercive control tactics post-separation. A secondary qualitative analysis of in-depth interviews with a sub-sample of 34 women provided additional examples. Abusive partners used numerous strategies to coercively control their ex-partners by stalking/harassing them, using financial abuse and discrediting the women to various authorities. Considerations for future research are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study determines that morbidity presents a mediating impact between intimate partner violence against women and labor productivity in terms of absenteeism and presenteeism. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used on a nationwide representative sample of 357 female owners of micro-firms in Peru. The resulting data reveals that morbidity is a mediating variable between intimate partner violence against women and absenteeism (β = 0.213; p <.001), as well as between intimate partner violence against women and presenteeism (β = 0.336; p <.001). This finding allows us to understand how such intimate partner violence against women negatively affects the workplace productivity in the context of a micro-enterprise, a key element in many economies across the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Violence against women is a prevalent, preventable public health crisis. COVID-19 stressors and pandemic countermeasures may have exacerbated violence against women. Cisgender college women are particularly vulnerable to violence. Thus, we examined the prevalence and correlates of verbal/physical violence experienced and perpetrated among cisgender women enrolled at a New York City college over one year during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: From a prospective cohort study, we analyzed data self-reported quarterly (T1, T2, T3, T4) between December 2020 and December 2021. Using generalized estimated equations (GEE) and logistic regression, we identified correlates of experienced and perpetrated violence among respondents who were partnered or cohabitating longitudinally and at each quarter, respectively. Multivariable models included all variables with unadjusted parameters X² p-value ≤0.05. Results: The prevalence of experienced violence was 52% (T1: N = 513), 30% (T2: N = 305), 33% (T3: N = 238), and 17% (T4: N = 180); prevalence of perpetrated violence was 38%, 17%, 21%, and 9%. Baseline correlates of experienced violence averaged over time (GEE) included race, living situation, loneliness, and condom use; correlates of perpetrated violence were school year, living situation, and perceived social support. Quarter-specific associations corroborated population averages: living with family members and low social support were associated with experienced violence at all timepoints except T4. Low social support was associated with higher odds of perpetrated violence at T1/T3. Other/Multiracial identity was associated with higher odds of violence experience at T3. Conclusions: Living situation was associated with experienced and perpetrated violence in all analyses, necessitating further exploration of household conditions, family dynamics, and interpersonal factors. The protective association of social support with experienced and perpetrated violence also warrants investigation into forms of social engagement and cohesion. Racial differences in violence also require examination. Our findings can inform university policy development on violence and future violence research. Within or beyond epidemic conditions, universities should assess and strengthen violence prevention and support systems for young women by developing programming to promote social cohesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Violence against women has numerous devastating effects. Exposure to violence not only impacts women but also affects their children both physically and psychosocially. Aims: The study aimed to evaluate the psychosocial problems of children living with their mothers in women's shelters from the mothers' perspective with a phenomenological approach. Methods: Utilizing the phenomenological research method, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 individuals in a women's shelter in a province in northern Türkiye. The criterion sampling method, a purposive sampling technique, was employed to select participants. Interviews continued until data saturation was achieved. All interviews were audio recorded and then transcribed, and thematic analysis was applied to analyze the data. The study adhered to the COREQ checklist for reporting. Results: The data analysis revealed four main categories (effects of violence on the mother, actions taken to protect children from violence, effects of violence and staying in a shelter on the child, and psychosocial needs for the protection of the child's mental health in the shelter) and 10 sub-themes (psychological effects, physical effects, social effects, domestic actions, organizational actions, psychological effects, physical effects, social effects, support system, and coping). Conclusion: The study concluded that violence significantly impacted the mental, physical, and social well-being of both women and children, posing challenges to their ability to cope with the aftermath. Women exerted considerable effort in protecting their children from violence, and they needed psychosocial support to ensure the well-being of their children's mental health during their stay in shelters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Many studies have documented an adverse impact of the pandemic on women´s mental health. This cross-sectional study aims to explore associations between women's perceived impact of lockdowns and curfews on their mental health and their residential location, along with other contextual and individual factors. Methods: Using data from the Flash Eurobarometer 2712 "Women in times of COVID-19", conducted between January 25 and February 3, 2022, across the 27 Member States of the European Union (n = 23,671), this study applied bivariate tests and stratified models based on respondent location (rural areas, small or medium-sized towns and urban areas). The exploration sought predictors influencing the perceived mental health impact, encompassing five individual characteristics (age, disability, employment status, educational attainment, and household type), perceptions of violence against women, and country of residence. The dependent variable was assessed subjectively, measured on a scale from 1 (minor negative impact) to 5 (major negative impact). Results: Women living in urban areas generally reported a higher perceived negative impact on mental health compared to women in rural areas or in small/medium-sized towns. Age and disability were significantly linked to perceiving a negative impact on mental health. Similar adjusted odds ratios for age were observed across rural areas (aOR 0.97, 95% CI = 0.97–0.98), small or medium-sized towns (aOR 0.98, 95% CI = 0.97–0.98), and urban areas (aOR 0.97, 95% CI = 0.97–0.98). In terms of disability, the odds were higher in rural areas (aOR 1.44, 95% CI = 1.20–1.73) than in urban ones (aOR 1.36, 95% CI = 1.15–1.62). Among women residing in urban areas, those in childless couples were less likely to perceive a negative impact on mental health (aOR 0.89, 95% CI = 0.80–0.99) compared to women in couples with children. Respondents perceiving increased violence against women due to COVID-19 were more likely to perceive a negative impact on mental health, with higher odds ratios in rural areas (aOR 1.56, 95% CI = 1.40–1.74) compared to urban areas (aOR 1.29, 95% CI = 1.17–1.41). Differences across countries were also found. Conclusion: The perceived impact of lockdowns and curfews on mental health exhibited variance between urban and rural areas. These disparities were influenced by individual characteristics such as age, disability, or household type, as well as the effects of COVID-19 on violence against women and contextual variables like country of residence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research indicates the presence of deeply ingrained gender biases within the health system, resulting in instances of mistreatment and violence against women and sexual dissidents. This study aimed to explore the stories of people assigned female at birth about their experiences of gynecological violence in Chile. Twenty-one women were recruited as participants, and semistructured interviews were conducted. Thematic analysis of the transcribed dialogs was performed, and four themes were developed: legitimization of violence, objectivation and loss of autonomy, transgression of intimacy and fear of abuse, and consequences of violence over time. This article sheds light on the impact and aftermath of gynecological violence among those seeking gynecological services, highlighting the convergence of cultural, institutional, and interpersonal factors that perpetuate this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual violence among adolescents represents a significant problem in society. In this study, we aimed to examine risk factors for sexual violence perpetration in adolescent men and victimization in adolescent women among a community sample of Norwegian high school students. The participants (560 men and 751 women, aged between 16 and 21 years) responded to online questionnaires covering physical and non‐physical forms of sexual harassment and possible risk factors identified in the literature. Last year's prevalence rate of physical sexual perpetration reported by adolescent men was 7%. Comparably, the prevalence of physical sexual victimization reported by adolescent women was 30%. Path analyses suggest that sociosexuality was associated with adolescent men's sexual perpetration indirectly through sexual risk taking, alcohol intoxication, porn exposure, and sexual underperception that in turn was positively associated with undesirable non‐physical solicitation from and toward women. In addition, rape stereotypes were associated with perpetration behavior in adolescent men. For adolescent women, sociosexuality was associated with being sexually victimized primarily through sexual risk behavior, alcohol intoxication, and sexual overperception. These factors were again positively associated with sexual derogation from adolescent women and solicitation from adolescent men. Prior sexual abuse victimization was only indirectly associated with victimization. The factors associated with adolescent men's perpetration and adolescent women's victimization were highly similar. Future work aimed at reducing sexual violence in adolescence within the educational context might find it more effective to specifically target non‐physical forms of sexual harassment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Every year, millions of people experience intimate partner violence (IPV) and commercial sexual exploitation (CSE), with researchers increasingly discussing the overlap between these two forms of interpersonal violence. However, researchers have not yet used quantitative methods to examine the link between IPV and CSE or to explore potential mechanisms underlying the overlap, including child maltreatment risk factors and psychological mechanisms. One potential mechanism is trauma-related shame, a symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder commonly experienced by both victims of CSE and IPV. The current study explores trauma-related shame, childhood maltreatment, and IPV and their associations with CSE using a sample of 174 primarily Black women. Binomial logistic regression is used to analyze the impact of IPV, child abuse and neglect, and trauma-related shame on CSE. Results indicate that IPV and trauma-related shame are both significant predictors of CSE. Implications for future research and the incorporation of shame in trauma-related treatment are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) often experience violent blows to the head, face, and neck and/or strangulation that result in brain injury (BI). Researchers reviewed the de-identified forensic nursing examination records of 205 women. More than 88% of women were subjected to multiple mechanisms of injury with in excess of 60% experiencing strangulation. About 31% disclosed various symptoms consistent with BI. Women experiencing strangulation were 2.24 times more likely to report BI-related symptoms compared to those who reported no strangulation. In conclusion, women experiencing IPV are prone to BI suggesting early screening and appropriate management are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We apply a Bourdieusian lens to understand the reproduction of a patriarchal illusio that works to maintain violence-supportive attitudes and concurrent low levels of support for gender equality among young people. We analyze interview and focus group data collected with young women and men and conclude that we must disrupt the reproduction of patriarchal norms by: recognizing the intentional operation of backlash by men's rights activist groups that undermine attempts to transform society; ensuring girls' and women's safety on new technologies to reduce their exposure to sexism and violence; and introducing prevention early to disrupt misogynist social norms being internalized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A qualitative study examined children's subjective perception of their mother's situation during their stay in shelters for battered women (SBW). Thirty-two children, aged 7–12 years, who were staying with their mothers in SBWs participated in this study. Thematic analysis revealed the following two core themes: children's perceptions and insights, and feelings that were related to their perceptions. The findings are discussed in light of the concepts of exposure to IPV as a lived trauma, and re-exposure to violence in new contexts, and the role of the relationship with the abused mother in shaping the child's well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The bond between mother and child is biological, genetic, spiritual, and unique. In times of intimate partner violence (IPV), mothering continues with efforts to protect and care for their children. The purpose of this project is to understand Indigenous mothering within the contexts of Indigenous identities, IPV, and rural, remote, and northern (RRN) places. Method: A secondary analysis of the Canadian Domestic Homicide Prevention for Vulnerable Populations Phase 3 Database revealed 16 cases identified as Indigenous mothers residing in RRN places. Grounded theory analyses explicated a preliminary theory of 'Colonial Pathways In, Indigenous Pathways Through' the social process of Indigenous mothering through IPV experiences in RRN places. Results: Indigenous mothering through IPV in RRN places is a responsive and embodied experience within a storied space, occurring through three pathways: Colonial pathways' into IPV; survival pathways during IPV; and recovery of cultural identity as providing an escape from IPV, expressed through themes of 1. comparative mothering, 2. continuous hypervigilance, protective nurturance, pursuit of safety, and 3. cultural recovery. Indigenous mothers demonstrates resilience in striving for safety while caring for their children within an IPV context. Conclusions: Indigenous mothering occurs even in the worst of times, such as during IPV. 'Colonial Pathways In, Indigenous Pathways Through' theory increases our understanding of Indigenous mothering in RRN places. Of significance is the occurrence of traumatic brain injury, pointing to the need for recognition that it is occurring and screening and treatment is required. Most of all, the study highlights the resilience, resistance, and resourcefulness of Indigenous mothers striving to keep themselves and their children safe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Men's violence against women is a global health problem causing physical, mental, sexual and reproductive ill-health. The World Health Organisation has estimated that every third woman in the world has been exposed to physical and/or sexual violence. Swedish primary care is central for victims of violence, as it is normally the first port of call for seeking healthcare. This requires professional competence on violence, and its causes. It also requires resources for working with violence prevention, disclosure and supportive actions. The aim of this study is to deepen the understanding of how primary care professionals in Sweden deal with violence against women. We analyse their viewpoints, experiences and practices of working with violence as a health problem, and especially if, and if so how, they ask patients about violence. Methods: A qualitative, explorative research design was adopted. Research interviews were conducted with 18 health professionals at eight primary care clinics. These clinics were located in four different regions, from the south to the north, in large urban areas, middle-size cities and rural areas. The interviews were voice recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the interviews. Results: Three themes, with a total of ten related sub-themes, were developed. These themes are: (a) Varying understandings and explanations of violence against women; (b) The tricky question of asking about violence; and (c) Multiple suggestions for improving primary care's work with violence against women. The awareness of violence varied considerably, with some practitioners being highly knowledgeable and having integrated violence into their everyday practice, whereas others were less knowledgeable and had not paid much attention to violence. The very naming of violence seemed to be problematic. Several suggestions for improvements at professional, managerial and organisational levels were articulated. Conclusions: The results shed important light on the professionals' problems and struggles when dealing with violence against women in primary care. Better support and resources from the healthcare organisation, clearer leadership and more detailed policy would improve and facilitate everyday practice. All of these factors are indispensable for primary care's work with victims of men's violence against women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying and contrasting different patterns of intimate partner violence (IPV) (e.g. situational couple violence, coercive controlling violence) is useful for understanding IPV and its connections with health. Applying this approach to dissociation may be fruitful, given theoretical perspectives that predict a specific connection between coercive controlling violence and dissociative symptoms. To address this, community women with divorce histories (N = 188) completed measures to identify patterns of IPV victimization in prior relationships (no direct violence, situational couple violence, coercive controlling violence), and to quantify recent dissociative symptoms and number of depressed days, for comparison. Contrary to predictions, the predicted odds of recent dissociative symptoms did not differ between women who experienced situational couple violence versus coercive controlling violence. However, the latter group had greater odds of recent dissociative symptoms, but not depressed days, compared to women with no histories of direct violence. Further, a continuous measure of coercive control was uniquely associated with increased odds of dissociative symptoms. This study provides preliminary empirical support for a connection between coercive controlling violence and dissociative symptoms, compared to women without histories of direct violence. This deserves further attention given the strong theoretical rationale for this link, and the importance of dissociation for mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study reports intervention from the perspective of abused South Asian women in the United States (U.S.) aligning with the Center for Disease Control (CDC's) ecological model. In-depth telephonic interviews were conducted with a convenience sample of 20 South Asian women in the U.S. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Utilizing the CDC's ecological model, the following themes emerged for prevention at the individual level: walk away the first-time abuse occurred; at the relationship level: pre-marital counseling and at the societal level: act on the red flags before the wedding, address the stringent gender roles, socialization, and blame. For protection, the following themes emerged at the individual level: self-determination and strength, protection of children, and financial independence. At the relationship level, the theme of marital counseling emerged and at the community level, the theme of community resources emerged. The South Asian natal family or family members in positions of power can recognize red flags, raise their voice, take constructive action to address misogyny, rigid patriarchal attitudes, and prevent abuse before it occurs. There is an urgent need to recognize and work at both preventative and protective levels to address the abuse among South Asian women in the U.S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Domestic violence against women is a complex social phenomenon and a widely recognised issue of public health, which requires that all sectors of society, including the health sector, take the necessary action to prevent and address it. This paper aims to contribute to the discussion on the role of the primary health care in addressing domestic violence against women, by analysing health professionals' perceptions of their practice as well as the difficulties they experience in providing healthcare to victims. To fulfil this aim, a qualitative approach was chosen, using focus groups with health professionals working in the area of primary health care in an inland region of Portugal. The main findings point to the lack of a specific protocol and insufficient information and skills to respond to domestic violence situations, which hinders health professionals' confidence to intervene and tends to orientate them towards a more medical response. Resulting from these findings, implications for practice are discussed: the need for clear and specific orientations to guide health professionals' intervention; the need to offer training that enables them to provide appropriate healthcare to women experiencing domestic violence; and the need to position themselves in the context of an integrated, multi-sectoral intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An editorail is presented the challenges faced by minority and marginalized women in accessing healthcare following experiences of violence. Topics include the impact of broader social inequities on violence prevalence, the role of healthcare systems in providing critical care and early intervention, and the importance of research in advancing healthcare policies and practices for these women.

Women and girls with disabilities are located at the intersections of patriarchal, ableist, and other structures of oppression that produce specific and heightened vulnerabilities to gender-based violence (GBV). Public health practitioners widely recognise the role of the healthcare sector in addressing GBV, however the role of the healthcare sector in addressing GBV must be questioned given ongoing barriers to healthcare access for people with disabilities. Grounded in an intersectional framework, I conducted a summative content analysis of GBV healthcare interventions to examine whether and how disability and intersectionality are mobilised in public health understanding of, and strategies to, address GBV. By bringing visibility to the ways in which silences construct and sustain the invisibility of women with disabilities and other social structures, I argue that GBV healthcare responses not only fail to provide care for women with disabilities across social locations, but they also risk reproducing understandings that devalue their lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research article aims to analyze the effect of female empowerment on gender-based intimate partner violence against women in Ecuador, a country where levels of violence stand out in the region. We apply an instrumental variable regression model using official data from the 2019 National Survey on Family Relations and Gender Violence against Women. We found a negative association between women empowerment and intimate partner violence, that is, greater empowerment of women is associated with lower manifestations of intimate partner violence. We also find a positive reverse association between manifestations of intimate partner violence against women and empowerment. This means that a woman who has been a victim of intimate partner violence will be more willing to embrace ideals that empower women. From a public policy perspective, government engagement with promotion of female empowerment will reduce intimate partner violence against women and the costs associated with it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The disclosure of HIV status poses challenges, and women living with HIV often face intimate partner violence as a result of revealing their HIV status. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of intimate partner violence and HIV status disclosure among women living with HIV in Indonesia, as well as the factors associated with disclosure. A total of 283 women with HIV participated in an online survey, and descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed. The findings revealed that women reported experiencing physical (9.54%), sexual (6.01%), mental (23.67%), and economic (14.49%) abuse. HIV status disclosure varied among different individuals, with higher rates observed for partners (71.2%), other family members (65.02%), close friends (37.10%), and lower rates for health workers (1.77%). Factors such as employment status and partner's HIV status influenced disclosure to partners, while the duration of knowing one's HIV status, experiences of intimate partner violence, and perceived barriers influenced disclosure to both family and non-family members. To mitigate the negative consequences of HIV status disclosure, targeted health promotion efforts should prioritize partners, family members, and non-family members, focusing on enhancing knowledge and awareness about HIV, including the impact of violence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectification theory was tested to examine the potential mediating role of self-objectification in the relationship between technology-facilitated sexual harassment (TFSH) and psychological functioning in a sample of women (N = 481). The results indicated that TFSH was associated with eating pathology, alcohol use, and sexual functioning. Furthermore, partial support for the objectification theory was achieved, with self-objectification potentially explaining the relationships between TFSH and eating pathology, and TFSH and alcohol use. This research may shed light on the role of objectification processes in the context of TFSH in women, as well as inform mental health interventions for women victims of TFSH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Female sex workers (FSWs) face prevalent violence victimization and alcohol consumption at work, yet the bidirectional pathways between these factors are not well defined. Using cohort data from 232 venue-based FSWs in Pattaya, associations of violence and alcohol use were examined within a time period and prospectively via structural equation models. Within the time period, violence victimization and alcohol use were consistently associated; by contrast, violence was not prospectively associated with FSW alcohol use. Findings define alcohol as an important risk factor for violence in sex work environments. Alcohol safety interventions should be explored as a vital component of FSW violence prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bagwell-Gray et al. developed a taxonomy of intimate partner sexual violence (IPSV) focusing on type of force (physical or nonphysical) and type of sexual activity (penetration or no penetration). The current secondary descriptive qualitative analysis of interviews with 89 Canadian women IPV victims assessed IPSV that fit Bagwell-Gray's taxonomy. About half (46 or 51.7%) described sexual violence, most commonly sexual abuse (26 or 29.2%), sexual assaults (17 or 19%), and sexual coercion (16 or 17.9%), with overlap across categories. Forced sexual activity was seldom mentioned (3 or 3.4%). Implications for service providers and researchers are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While existing literature suggests a link between alcohol intake and the perpetuation of controlling behaviors, reverse association is yet to be established. Therefore, our study aims to extend the current understanding of the determinants of alcohol consumption among women in Ghana by investigating the association between partner controlling behavior and women's past month's alcohol consumption. Methods: The study relied on data from the 2022 Ghana demographic and health survey. Analysis was based on observations from 5137 women with complete information on partner controlling behavior and past month alcohol consumption. Descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were computed. All analyses were executed in STATA version 18. Results: About 15.05% of women consumed alcohol; 37.31% of the respondents had partners who exhibited controlling behaviors. Women who reported experiencing partner controlling behaviors were 1.19 times more likely to engage in alcohol consumption compared to those who did not report such behaviors (AOR = 1.19; 95% CI 1.01–1.41). Additionally, the study identified other significant predictors of alcohol consumption among women, including experiences of sexual violation (AOR = 1.62; 95% CI 1.21–2.15) and richer wealth (AOR = 0.76; 95% CI 0.59–0.97). Conclusion: In conclusion, experiencing partner controlling behavior is associated with higher risk of alcohol consumption. Thus, underscoring the importance of addressing not only individual-level factors but also relational dynamics in understanding and addressing alcohol intake among women. Policy makers and program implementers must prioritize interventions aimed at promoting healthy relationship dynamics and addressing gender-based power imbalances. Furthermore, healthcare providers should be trained recognize and address partner controlling behaviors and sexual violence as part of comprehensive interventions for reducing alcohol consumption among women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economic abuse is a significant gender-based problem in Ghana and sub-Saharan Africa, but few studies explore the consequences of this type of abuse on women's lives and their coping strategies. This study examined the narratives of 16 Ghanaian women in intimate relationships who experienced economic abuse in the Greater Accra, Ashanti, and Upper East regions of Ghana. Results indicate economic abuse negatively affected female survivors' jobs, businesses, and food security and led to physical violence and adverse health implications. Some women coped by relying on external family networks, religion, and theft from husbands, while others trivialized their experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the factors associated with non-help-seeking in victims of physical or sexual intimate partner violence (IPV) in Peru. Methods: This was an analytical cross-sectional study of 3-year data from the Peruvian Demographic and Health Survey. The sample comprised women aged 18 to 49 who had experienced physical or sexual IPV at some time in their lives. The dependent variable was non-help-seeking after suffering physical or sexual IPV. Adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) with their 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated to assess the factors associated with non-help-seeking. In addition, a sensitivity analysis was carried out in which only women who suffered physical or sexual IPV in the last year were considered. Results: Data from 15,265 female victims of physical or sexual IPV were analyzed. It was found that 57.4% did not seek help after suffering physical or sexual IPV. The main reasons for non-help-seeking included thinking it was unnecessary (42.3%) and embarrassment (14.9%). Age between 30 and 49 years old (PRa:1.15; 95%CI [1.06, 1.25]) and residing in a rural area (PRa:1.07; 95%CI [1.00, 1.13]) were associated with a higher probability of non-help-seeking. On the other hand, having a secondary education level (PRa:0.91; 95% CI [0.86, 0.97]) or higher (PRa:0.90; 95%CI [0.82, 0.99]), having a partner who drinks alcohol (PRa:0.94; 95%CI [0.89, 0.99]), having experienced physical or sexual IPV during a pregnancy (PRa:0.87; 95%CI [0.80, 0.94]), and having experienced moderate (PRa:0.81; 95%CI [0.76, 0.86]), or severe physical or sexual IPV (PRa:0.74; 95%CI [0.67, 0.82]), were associated with a lower probability of non-help-seeking. These associations were consistent in the sensitivity analysis. Conclusion: Half of the women who experience physical or sexual IPV do not seek help. There are sociodemographic factors related to this non-seeking of help that are useful for identifying and prioritizing interventions to reduce IPV and improve the health status of women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This scoping review critically assessed evidence regarding mental disorders among mothers involved with the criminal justice system (CJS) and provided pooled prevalence rates of mental disorders. In total, 27 studies were included in the review, with 23 studies from the United States of America and 26 focused on incarcerated mothers. The findings supported the evidence on substantial burden of mental disorders, among CJS-involved mothers. Several factors contributing to mental disorders were identified, including history of abuse/incarceration/mental illness, a greater number of pregnancies, child-rearing responsibilities, less contact with children, and poor social support, which were organised using a socioecological model. However, significant gaps in the current evidence base were apparent, including inconsistencies in methodologies and outcomes assessed and a lack of large, longitudinal studies. The study highlights the importance of high-quality longitudinal research to extend knowledge around causal pathways between different risk or protective factors and mental disorders among CJS-involved mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines how community-based advocates describe their observations of women in Alabama experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) during COVID-19 and the impacts on their roles as service providers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten participants from six agencies covering 22 counties in Alabama, to investigate contributing factors of IPV during the initial phases of the coronavirus pandemic and to share their experiences in providing services to survivors during this historic time. Along with existing barriers, COVID-19 introduced new and exacerbating factors for women experiencing violence and for those attempting to provide services. Advocates observed that pandemic-influenced circumstances such as confinement, isolation, and economic instability exacerbated certain types of violence and that Black women, immigrant women, and women in rural areas faced heightened barriers. Advocates also revealed a relationship between these heightened barriers brought on by COVID-19 and their own experiences of isolation, grief, and a yearning for connection. These findings reveal the pertinent needs of survivors and advocates as we move through, forward, and beyond this global pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between physical intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization and four related aspects of emotional well-being: threat sensitivity, intolerance of uncertainty, impulse control, and access to resources for emotional regulation. We draw on a transactional model of IPV and emotional regulation to theorize how invalidation and partner threats in relationships can generate harmful emotional outcomes. We used representative data collected for residents living in five U.S. states: Colorado, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Jersey, and Texas. Our analytic sample included individuals who reported having been in a romantic relationship in the past year (N = 2,501). Data were collected using a probability-based web panel, between April 29 and May 15, 2022. Following the presentation of descriptive statistics and bivariate correlations, we developed a series of four multivariate models (ordinary least squares [OLS], negative binomial) to analyze the association between IPV victimization and each emotional outcome. All models adjusted for pertinent demographic and geographic control measures. Physical IPV victimization was associated with increased intolerance of uncertainty and heightened threat sensitivity. IPV victimization also corresponded with poorer impulse control and fewer resources for emotional regulation. Overall, our results demonstrate that experiences of physical IPV victimization are linked to poorer emotional outcomes. These outcomes can be harmful to broader mental health and potentially impact long-term well-being. The findings underscore the importance of mental health screenings that extend beyond assessments of diagnostic-level functions and allocating resources toward alleviating other clinically relevant factors that might arise from or even prompt additional exposure to physical IPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the perception of violence against women (VAW) in the Middle East and North Africa in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic using Arab Barometer VI parts 1 and 3 (N = 12,548). Results showed that men and social conservatism were less likely to perceive that the VAW in the community had increased. For religious people, the odds of perceiving violence in the community were higher. Individuals whose jobs were interrupted because of the COVID-19 outbreak were more likely to perceive VAW in the community has increased compared to individuals whose jobs were not interrupted. The strongest predictor of the perception of increased VAW in the community because of COVID-19 was the current economic situation of the country. Those who perceived the economic situation of the country as bad were 1.6 times more likely to believe that VAW has increased. Government handling of the crisis and overall government performance increased the odds of perceiving that VAW has increased. Investigating correlates of VAW as the consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic is crucial because it helps governments, emergency services, and community leaders develop strategies of prevention for future disasters and improve community and institutional reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The pathways by which adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with early marriage and early pregnancy are poorly understood. Early marriage and early pregnancy may be risk factors for adulthood intimate partner violence (IPV). The aim of this study was to assess the relationships among ACEs, early marriage, early pregnancy, and IPV among women in Honduras. Method: We used weighted data from 1,436 women aged 18–24 years from the nationally representative 2017 Honduras Violence Against Children and Youth Survey. We used path analysis to estimate relationships and accounted for sample design, non-response, and within-country clustering. Results: We found that ACEs had differential relationships with outcomes of interest. For example, witnessing violence in the community was directly associated with increased probability of early pregnancy (10 percentage points (PP); 95% CI: 0.04, 0.15) and IPV (6 PP; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.10), while emotional violence was not directly or indirectly associated with any outcome. Early marriage and early pregnancy had no direct or indirect effect on IPV, but the total effect of early marriage on IPV was significant. Conclusions: Understanding the relationship between ACEs, early marriage, early pregnancy, and IPV may help inform prevention efforts. For example, programs aiming to reduce early pregnancy may consider addressing sexual violence experienced in childhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Children exposed to domestic violence are at risk of adverse short- and long-term psychosocial effects and of being abused themselves. However, mothers and children face systemic gaps when seeking safety from domestic violence services and police. Safety planning typically focuses on women, overlooking their multiple social identities and excluding their children. We explored safety strategies used by mothers and children coping together with severe domestic violence. Method: Interviews with 30 mothers who experienced severe or potentially life-threatening domestic violence and 5 adults who experienced domestic violence in childhood were qualitatively analyzed using thematic analysis, revealing five major themes: ongoing communication, appeasing the abuser, soothing activities, exposure reduction, and fostering independence. Results: Interpreting participants' experiences in terms of the mother-child dyad, we found that mothers and their children worked together to reassure each other, keep each other safe, and make plans to leave their abuser. Conclusions: Safety planning for the mother-child dyad could build on children's existing coping strategies and recognize and support children's desire to protect their mother and themselves effectively and safely according to their developmental stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rohingya women are doubly marginalized owing to their ethnicity and gender. Therefore, this study aims to describe the unique experiences of violence faced by Rohingya women who fled Myanmar and Bangladesh to seek asylum in Malaysia before, during, and after their transit. Primary data were collected from 33 participants comprising Rohingya women refugees and asylum seekers, medical social workers, medical officials, volunteer workers/activists, refugee organization officers, and a mental health care provider. Thematic analysis was used to identify the patterns in and relationships between the concepts in the collected data. Rohingya women were exposed to various forms of violence and trauma by various groups of men, including those from their own community, throughout their journey to and in Malaysia. The lack of recognition of refugees and asylum seekers in Malaysia prevents them from having mainstream or legal access to jobs, education, and healthcare, and this predicament compounds their suffering from violence, especially for women and girls. Rohingya women and girls in Malaysia need better access to healthcare, resources, and support to identify and address violence, which has a significant impact on their health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Violence against women in Peru is a problem that has a high incidence and is increasing, despite the policies undertaken by past governments and the creation of the Ministry of Women and Vulnerable Populations in 1996, causing that one in two women have been abused at some point in their lives. However, the treatment of abused women is still insufficient even though there are more Women's Emergency Centers (WEC) each year, where victims can ask for professional support and treatment quickly and effectively. The chatbot provides an alternative to eliminate the distance between the abused woman and the WEC; therefore, a mobile application called AyudaMujer is proposed that includes a chatbot, news, a map of nearby WECs, and the connection with specialists for the treatment of violence against women. The chatbot identifies, automatically and through a natural dialogue, the type of violence and its level of risk. Additionally, it assigns a specialist to provide personalized professional treatment. The testing of AyudaMujer with 20 abused women from Lima, Peru, shows that the risk of violence is reduced by an average of 19.43% after three weeks of use. The results show that this tool can contribute to the treatment of abused women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Women with disability experience significantly more violence and abuse than their nondisabled peers. Efforts to implement, evaluate, and scale-up strategies to prevent violence against women are rapidly expanding, but we know less about "what works" to prevent violence against women with disability. While secondary and tertiary prevention aim to identify violence early and prevent further occurrence, this review focuses on primary prevention. In the disability services sector, primary prevention is sometimes referred to as safeguarding and covers a range of activities that aim to address the underlying determinants of violence to prevent it from happening in the first place. The aim of this review is to identify and synthesize research on evaluated interventions addressing the primary prevention of violence against women with disability and explore evidence about their quality and effectiveness. A systematic search across the bibliographic databases of Medline, CINAHL, Embase, and PsychInfo for peer-reviewed literature published in English on or after January 1, 2010, yielded 483 papers of potential interest. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria and were considered for review. Data were extracted and the quality of the studies was assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. Most studies reported outcomes from pre- and post-test research designs and received a weak rating of quality. Although interventions targeting awareness, knowledge, and skill development showed evidence of effectiveness, there is a distinct lack of program development that draws on known risk factors for violence such as the intersection of ableism and gender inequality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known on the subject?: Women are more likely to experience intimate partner violence (IPV) than men; 19.2%–69.0% of women have experienced IPV, and the percentage is increasing.Survivors of IPV suffer from physical, psychological, social and reproductive health problems and numerous adverse health consequences such as post‐traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety. These are considered IPV comorbidities, especially among women. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: This study reviews and reinforces existing scientific knowledge regarding the application of trauma‐informed care (TIC), including intervention content or type, frequency, duration of session and length.This study focused on the effects of TIC. Furthermore, it examines short‐term (3 months) and medium‐term (6 months) outcome effects, which are more significant for clinical practice. What are the implications for practice?: Development of a standardized protocol to address specific needs for TIC in IPV care settings.Among multidisciplinary teams, nurses are the ideal professionals to support women experiencing IPV. They can understand their traumatic experiences better, improve their therapeutic relationships and engage patients in collaborative care. Introduction: Post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety are considered intimate partner violence (IPV) comorbidities, especially among women. Trauma‐informed care (TIC) is the most common element of IPV care. Aim: This study analysed the short‐term (3 months) and medium‐term (6 months) outcomes of TIC on PTSD, depression and anxiety in women experiencing IPV. Method: The Preferred Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis guidelines were followed, and databases were searched from their inception to September 2022. Results: Thirteen randomized controlled trials included 850 women randomly assigned to the TIC and usual care groups. Overall, TIC showed a superior psychological health‐improving effect. Depression and anxiety significantly improved after treatment and at three and 6 months. No difference was observed in PTSD between the two groups at 3 and 6 months. Discussion: The growing evidence demonstrates that the lack of IPV intervention effects reported by reviews may be due to the attributes of PTSD, heterogeneity of TIC intervention design and components of TIC. Therefore, its clinical efficacy remains inconclusive. Implications for Practice: We analysed studies by stratifying intervention frequencies of once or twice a week. Regardless of the intervention frequency, length and design, PTSD decreased immediately after the TIC intervention. However, a significant difference in depression was observed after a TIC intervention of above 9 weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies exploring the influential factors associated with attitudinal acceptance of wife abuse (AAWA) did not widely focus on the relation between women's social mobility (WSM) and different dimensions of AAWA in rural Bangladesh. This current study examined the association between WSM and different dimensions of AAWA in the context of socio-cultural differences among the Bengali, the Santal, and the Garo ethnic communities in rural Bangladesh. Adopting a cross-sectional design, 1,929 married men and women were randomly included in the study from 8 Bengali, 8 Santal, and 8 Garo villages where 50.2% were women and 49.8% were men. Of the sample, 33.2% Garo, 33.2% Santal, and 33.6% Bengali participants were included in this study. Data revealed that 45.5% of women had low social mobility and the prevalence of different dimensions of AAWA was high and varied among the study communities. We used descriptive statistics, chi-square, and binary logistic regression analysis to estimate the association. The multivariate binary logistic regression analysis results revealed that the likelihood of attitudinal acceptance of overall abuse, psychological abuse, physical abuse, abuse on disobeying family obligation, and abuse on challenging male authority were significantly lower for the respondents who belonged to families where women enjoyed high mobility compared to those who belonged to families where WSM was low. This study also showed that the Bengali and the Santal participants were more likely to accept different dimensions of AAWA compared to the Garos. This study suggests that WSM should be considered in policy-making and implementing interventions to reduce the different dimensions of AAWA in rural Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Firearms are the leading cause of intimate partner violence-related murders of women in the US. This study aimed to understand differing consequences of partners' firearm possession on abused women and barriers women face in reporting threats to safety due to the partners' possession of a firearm. Additionally, the study explored participants' perceptions of effective approaches to risk assessments and safety planning with women who are at-risk for being harmed by their partners' possession of a firearm. Qualitative semi-structured interviews with 17 service providers and 45 immigrant women survivors of intimate partner violence were conducted. Data were analyzed using a content analysis procedure. Participants shared that the partners' possession of a firearm can increase risk for firearm-related injury or fatality in situations of escalation of violence. Abused women living with a partner with firearm possession live in constant fear or threat. The presence of a firearm can also be a trigger of unwanted memories of the past and can have legal and other consequences for survivors. Impediments to reporting threats to safety were barriers such as lack of knowledge of firearm-related risks and gender and social norms. The findings can be informative for safety planning with survivors of IPV whose partners own or have access to a firearm. Comprehensive assessment of risks and barriers can be used to develop individualized and tailored safety plans for survivors with a partner who possesses a firearm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the growing concern about perpetration of violence against women (VAW) amongst young adults, this article examines how a sample (n = 27) of Irish young adults (18–24 years) construct the term VAW. Participants drew on personal experiences to describe the term and were cognisant of the gendered perpetration of domestic, psychological, and sexual violence. A group of participants, however, constructed narrow understandings of VAW that did not align with their routinized experiences of unwanted touching and sexual microaggressions. We call for initiatives to enable young adults to name and link together different forms of VAW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing on data from a prospective pregnancy cohort (N = 1,507), this study examines the relationship between exposure to physical and emotional intimate partner violence (IPV) across the first 10 years of motherhood and women's mental and physical health. A measure of IPV (Composite Abuse Scale) was included at 1, 4, and 10 years postpartum. Past year and prior experiences of IPV were associated with mental and physical health issues at 10 years, both for mothers who had experienced combined IPV and emotional IPV alone. Awareness of the health issues associated with different types of IPV can assist in tailoring responses for women who experience IPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theoretical frameworks suggest that how victims of violence against women (VAW) label their experiences and selves shapes their help-seeking intentions and behaviors. Quantitative studies assessing this relationship have focused on sexual assault and have neglected self-labels, thus this study adds to the research by including multiple forms of VAW and both experience-labels (e.g., "abuse") and self-labels (e.g., "victim"). Data came from a community-based sample of 1,284 adult, female victims of physical intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and/or stalking. These women participated in a state-wide phone survey in 2020 to determine victimization prevalence and were selected for the present analyses based on their victimization experiences. Bivariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine whether experience- and self-labels predicted the likelihood of perceiving the need for legal services, victim services, shelter or safe housing, and/or medical care, as well as talking to police. Both applying a label to one's experiences with VAW and applying a label to oneself in relation to those experiences approximately doubled the odds of perceiving a need for formal services. The significance of self-labels seemed to be driven by the "survivor" label, as using a "victim" label was not related to need perceptions, but a "survivor" label doubled or tripled the odds of perceiving a need for formal services. Applying a label to one's experiences with VAW almost doubled the odds of talking to the police, and, again, use of the "survivor" self-label significantly increased the odds of talking to the police. These findings confirm the importance of labeling one's victimization experiences and self, and indicate that greater attention be paid to the labels that victims use and how the use of labels might be improved so that they are more likely to seek and attain meaningful help and services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Red Pill (TRP) is an online antifeminist seduction community, which encourages its members to employ their beliefs and manipulation strategies in offline relationships. Though previous studies have evaluated online TRP communities and their discourse, this study represents the first investigation of the impacts of TRP practices on intimate partners engaged in physical, offline relationships with TRP men. Six in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with women who had formerly been romantic partners with TRP men. Analysis revealed four primary themes: (1) technology use, (2) maltreatment, (3) social beliefs, and (4) long-term effects, each with multiple subcategories. TRP was used by male partners both as a basis for controlling many elements of participants' lives, as well as a basis for their own beliefs about gender, sexuality, and politics. Despite differences in ages, lengths of relationships, and geographic locations of participants, commonalities were found in their experiences of various forms of maltreatment. As a result, participants expressed high levels of ongoing mistrust toward dating and other men. Findings suggest that TRP exists as a form of intimate partner violence spreading via the internet while masking as a seduction or self-help system, and that its risks are not limited to online spaces. Results may inform future research in order to generate greater awareness and potential prevention strategies for TRP-affected populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Violence against young women is a problem worldwide. Understanding its causes in a particular setting can inform context-specific interventions. We used Fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM), a visual method for collating local knowledge about causes of health outcomes, to explore community views of factors that cause or prevent violence against young women in rural communities in southeast Botswana. In three communities, groups of young men, young women, older men, and older women built maps (68 participants and 12 maps in total) of factors they believed increased or decreased the risk of violence against young women. Trained local facilitators guided group sessions, drawing the reported factors as nodes linked by weighted arrows indicating the direction and strength of causal relationships among factors. Fuzzy transitive closure calculated the influence of each factor on others, considering direct and indirect connections. We combined maps by groups of stakeholders and condensed individual factors into categories which emerged from an inductive thematic analysis. The categories labelled conflict in relationships and parenting and family issues had the strongest influences on increasing violence across all maps. These categories were also common intermediaries between other causal categories and violence. The categories labelled women being disrespectful or uncooperative and transactional and intergenerational sex were the third and fourth strongest risk categories overall. Prominent protective concepts included a stronger legal framework and strengthening the role of local traditional leadership, with greater prominence on the maps of older participants. The most influential risk and protective categories were consistent across young men, young women, older men, and older women. FCM was feasible and acceptable with different stakeholders in Botswana. Fuzzy cognitive maps can inform community discussions, for example, of conflictive gender norms, family dynamics or healthier relationships, and are useful to build theories on how to act on the causes of violence against young women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines pathways from gender-based, racialized violence to health outcomes among formerly incarcerated Black women. We frame violence as gender-based and racialized, with a theoretical stance that we live in a male-dominated society characterized by historic and contemporary race-based oppression. This secondary analysis focused on a subsample of Black women (N = 288) from three U.S. cities (Oakland, CA; Kansas City, KS, MO; and Birmingham, AL) from March 2019 to June 2020 for the Tri-City Cervical Cancer Prevention Study among Women in the Justice System. Confirmatory factor analysis evaluated psychometric properties of hypothesized latent variables—violence victimization, living conditions, and healthcare access—and their observed indicators. Structural equation modeling estimated their relationships with physical, mental, and sexual health, controlling for sampling location. Violence victimization was associated with mental (β = 0.37, p =.000) and sexual health concerns (β = 0.31, p =.000). Healthcare access was associated with physical health concerns (β = 0.45, p =.004). Although there were no direct relationships between living conditions and health concerns, mediation analysis indicated worse living conditions were associated with more violence victimization and less healthcare access, with violence victimization fully mediating a relationship with mental and physical health concerns. Regarding control variables, women in Kansas City reported more sexual health concerns (β = 0.19, p =.005). Findings have important implications for treatment and care for Black women with incarceration and violence victimization histories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual victimization is prevalent among college women with a history of childhood abuse (CA), which some research suggests is linked to impaired risk perception for sexual victimization or difficulties identifying and responding to unwanted sexual advances. Alexithymia is one construct yet to be examined in the association between CA and risk perception for sexual victimization. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the associations between CA, alexithymia, and risk perception for sexual victimization in a sample of college women with a history of CA. Participants included 294 undergraduate women with a history of childhood emotional, physical, and/or sexual abuse (Mage = 20.6, 80.6% White). An a priori path analysis was conducted to examine whether alexithymia indirectly explains the association between CA and risk perception for sexual victimization (i.e., comprising two related constructs, including threat detection and behavioral response to threat). Supplementary analyses were conducted post hoc to examine potential differences across CA subtypes (emotional, physical, and sexual). Alexithymia indirectly explained the relationship between CA and threat detection, and behavioral response to threat. However, indirect effects were negative, suggesting that undergraduate women with more severe CA and alexithymia identify sexual assault threat cues and intentions to "leave" a hypothetical sexual assault scenario sooner rather than later. The same pattern of results was observed for emotional and physical (but not sexual) CA when examining their indirect effects on threat detection, and for emotional CA when examining behavioral response to threat. Findings contribute to the literature on sexual victimization by clarifying the role of alexithymia in risk perception for sexual victimization. Results also highlight the potential utility of increasing emotional literacy among college women with a history of CA (and especially emotional abuse) to facilitate adaptive responding to unwanted sexual advances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intimate partner violence against pregnant women is an important public health concern and human rights issue. According to the various findings of previous studies, this study was conducted to assess the pooled prevalence of intimate partner violence against Iranian women. Methods: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, a literature search was conducted in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, MagIran, and Scientific Information Database without a time limit. Heterogeneity was assessed by Cochrane Q test statistics and the I 2 test, and the results were incorporated into a random effects model to estimate the prevalence of intimate partner violence. Data analysis was performed using R software version 4.3.2. Results: The overall prevalence of intimate partner violence was reported to be 51.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) 45.0–58.1), and the prevalence rate of physical, sexual, and psychological intimate partner violence was 18.0% (95% CI 15.1–20.9), 22.1% (95% CI 17.7–26.60) and 43.2% (95% CI 36.6–49.8), respectively. The lowest level of physical, sexual, and emotional intimate partner violence rate was observed in district 1 of Iran (includes Tehran, the capital of Iran and the surrounding provinces). The rate of physical and sexual intimate partner violence prevalence decreased with the increased mean age of the husband (P =0.005) and the mean age of the wife (P =0.035), respectively. Conclusions: Studies included in this review report that more than half of Iranian women experience violence during pregnancy. In order to prevent adverse maternal and neonatal consequences, it is necessary to identify these women and introduce them to support centres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Qualitative and feminist researchers aim to build rapport, show empathy, be non-judgemental, and equalise power imbalances. A crucial challenge researchers face is how to navigate and balance competing aims and values when interacting with and interviewing participants who have perpetrated intimate partner violence and abuse towards women. In this article, four female researchers evaluating perpetrator programmes for abusive men use reflexive analysis to identify the tensions encountered in such research. We outline how these tensions affected us and the data produced, and end with recommendations, which we hope will help prepare researchers, particularly women, for conducting interviews with violent/abusive men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]