Factors associated with intimate partner violence and barriers to reporting it, among female who use drugs in Malaysia

Abstract

Females who use drugs (FWUDs) are vulnerable to intimate partner violence (IPV). This study was initiated to identify factors that evoke IPV, and identify barriers that preclude FWUDs from seeking help. Two-hundred FWUDs were recruited from a mandatory drug rehabilitation centre (CCRC) for this cross-sectional study. The data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. The majority in our sample was Malay (86%, n = 171/200), and their mean age was 32.3 years (SD = 8.61). The lifetime IPV prevalence rate in the sample was 53% (n = 105/200), far exceeding the reported rate for non-drug dependent married women in Malaysia. The prevalence rates for physical, psychological, and sexual violence in the sample were 41%, 29%, and 24%, respectively. Lifetime IPV incidence among FWUDs was associated with living away from parents/family, having a regular intimate male partner who uses drugs, and having been a victim of underage rape. The main reasons for not reporting IPV were the lack of knowledge of one’s rights, not knowing how to access legal counsel, and the fear of retaliation from one’s partner. Our findings may be useful in designing interventions to minimize the occurrence of IPV and promote the seeking of assistance and treatment by FWUDs.