Attitudes About Intimate Partner Violence Screening Among an Ethnically Diverse Sample of Young Women

Abstract

Purpose This clinic-based study investigated attitudes about intimate partner violence (IPV) screening among an ethnically diverse population of adolescent and young adult women (n = 645). Methods A cross-sectional quantitative and qualitative survey assessed experiences with and attitudes toward IPV screening. Results Almost all participants supported universal IPV screening and over 90% believed that a health care provider was the most appropriate adult to ask them about interpersonal violence. Young women’s concerns toward screening varied by age and violence experience; those most likely to mind being screened were younger, had a history of childhood sexual abuse, and were victims of physical violence in the last year. However, even in these groups, over 70% supported IPV screening. Qualitative analyses suggested that provider qualities and confidentiality will affect the amount of disclosure to provider-initiated screening. Women also raised important questions about how to define IPV in relationships. Conclusions Young women generally favor universal screening of interpersonal violence, but provider qualities and confidentiality issues affect responses to screening questions.