Poster #135 - Intimate Partner Violence Among Clients in Family Treatment Courts

• In Event: ASC Poster Session II

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is defined as psychological, physical, or sexual abuse or aggression occurring in a former or current romantic relationship. IPV can have a lasting impact on physical and mental health conditions including substance use disorder. This research examined the impact of any recent experience of IPV on mental health, quality of life and recovery capital among participants in family treatment courts.  Clients from six family treatment courts in a southeastern state were recruited and surveyed at the beginning of their program.  Surveys included a range of questions including the Conflict Tactics Scale (10 items), Trauma Symptoms Checklist (40 items), Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (20 items), WHO Quality of Life and the Brief Assessment of Recovery Capital (10 items). Experience with IPV is significantly associated with greater symptoms of depression and trauma, and lower ratings of quality of life (physical, psychological and social domains). Further analyses will examine changes in IPV involvement over time. Discussion will focus on the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses IPV can strengthen client recovery.

Authors

• Danielle Rivers, Georgia State University

• Wendy Guastaferro, Florida Atlantic University

• Amanda Norris, Georgia State University

• Arshya Gurbani, Georgia State University

• Rachel Carr, Georgia State University

• Daniel Whitaker, Georgia State University