Association between Physical and Sexual Violence and Mental Health in Suburban Women of Zahedan: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Suburban population is a group at risk of violence and mental disorder due to inappropriate socioeconomic and environmental factors in informal settlements. Sexual and physical violence are associated with short and long-term mental health disorders. Aim: To investigate the association between physical and sexual violence and mental health status in suburban women of reproductive age. Materials and Methods: This correlational cross-sectional study assessed the sexual and physical violence and mental health among 400 suburban women living in Zahedan, Iran in 2016. Randomised one stage cluster sampling was used. General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) and sexual and physical violence questionnaire was used for data collection. For data analysis, descriptive statistical methods, independent t-tests and linear regression analysis were performed. Results: In 400 samples, 72 (18), 156 (39) and 248 of women (62) experienced physical violence, sexual violence and mental disorders respectively. There were significant differences between the mean of GHQ-28 scores in groups with and without a history of physical violence (p<0.001) also in groups with and without a history of sexual violence (p=0.03). Linear regression analysis showed physical and sexual violence had significant relationship with GHQ-28 (p<0.001, p=0.03 respectively). Conclusion: Status of mental health of suburban women is inappropriate and is under effects of physical and sexual violence. Policy and planning to reduce violence, mental health promotion and providing acceptable service for these people are essential.