Domestic violence and stalking during pregnancy

Objective: The study investigates the degree to which pregnancy is related to partner stalking and violence. Facilitating factors associated with domestic violence also are evaluated. Methods: A random sample of 519 newly filed domestic restraining orders was used. Logistic regression and χ 2 were used to test the null hypothesis that there are no significant relationships between pregnancy and domestic violence and stalking. Correlates of domestic violence during pregnancy also were analyzed. Results: With regard to violence, the null hypothesis was rejected; for stalking, however, the null hypothesis was accepted. Conclusion: Partner violence, but not stalking, is positively related to pregnancy. Family stress and multiple, closely spaced pregnancies are possible correlates of domestic violence during pregnancy.