Polyvictimization Of Interpersonal Violence And Mental Health In College Women

ASU Author/Contributor (non-ASU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Amaka Imoh (Creator)
Institution
Appalachian State University (ASU )
Web Site: https://library.appstate.edu/
Advisor
Denise Martz

Abstract: Research has established connections between interpersonal violence (IPV) and psychological disorders. The present study assessed the relationships between polyvictimization (PV) – multiple forms of IPV – and mental health in female college students at App State using a DSM- 5 psychological disorder screener and a demographics survey. Female participants (n = 134) were recruited for the study via SONA. Average age was 19.6 years, 83% were Caucasian, 88% were heterosexual, and 32% reported a current mental health diagnosis. Participants were asked about IPV, and 47% reported having experienced at least one form. The DSM screener included 13 psychological domains showing sleep problems (14%) as most common among participants. A continuous variable, “Number of IPV Types,” quantified PV, and the DSM domains were summed, variable “Total DSM.” A univariate ANOVA on sexual orientation (heterosexual vs non-heterosexual) found a difference in Number of IPV Types, with heterosexuals reporting fewer cases of PV, F(1,134) = 11.1, p < .001, but no differences in Total DSM. A multiple regression run on Number of IPV Types as the criterion variable using the psychological domains initially correlated with this found that only Somatization disorders (ß = .40, p < .001) and Suicidal Ideation (ß = .37, p < .002) were predictors (R2 = .27). This study suggests nearly half of App State women have experienced IPV, almost one-third report a current psychological disorder, and PV is significantly related to somatization and suicidal ideation.

Additional Information

Publication
Honors Project
Imoh, A. (2020). Polyvictimization Of Interpersonal Violence And Mental Health In College Women. Unpublished Honors Thesis. Appalachian State University, Boone, NC.
Language: English
Date: 2020
Keywords
polyvictimization, interpersonal violence, DSM-5 Self Rated Measure, somatization, suicidal ideation

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