Domestic violence and its mental health correlates in Indian women
Kumar, S.; Jeyaseelan, L.; Suresh, S.; Ahuja, R.C.
British Journal of Psychiatry the Journal of Mental Science 187: 62-67
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0007-1250 PMID: 15994573 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.187.1.62Document Number: 261556
Domestic spousal violence against women has far-reaching mental health implications. To determine the association of domestic spousal violence with poor mental health. In a household survey of rural, urban non-slum and urban slum areas from seven sites in India, the population of women aged 15-49 years was sampled using probability proportionate to size. The Self Report Questionnaire was used to assess mental health status and a structured questionnaire elicited spousal experiences of violence. Of 9938 women surveyed, 40% reported poor mental health. Logistic regression showed that women reporting 'any violence' -- 'slap', 'hit', 'kick' or 'beat' (OR 2.2, 95% CI 2.0-2.5) -- or 'all violence' -- all of the four types of physically violent behaviour (OR 3.5, 95% CI 2.94-3.51) -- were at increased risk of poor mental health. Findings indicate a strong association between domestic spousal violence and poor mental health, and underscore the need for appropriate interventions.