The relationship between violent victimization, social support and mental health for women and men

• In Event: Victimology Working Group Panel 4 Consequences of Victimization

Abstract

Victims of crime frequently experience poor mental health, although this varies by victimization type and mental health aspect. Research indicates that sexual violence and domestic violence generally have strong relationships with adverse mental health outcomes, particularly among women, and that social support is an essential protective factor for mental health. This study aimed to examine the relationships between various forms of victimization and mental health, including anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD, and well-being. Furthermore, we examined differences based on biological sex and social support as a moderator of these effects. We conducted a phone survey with a nationally representative sample of 1766 Icelandic adults. The analysis included seven forms of victimization: weaponized attacks, emotional abuse, sexual harassment, captivity, and domestic, sexual, and physical violence. Emotional abuse (39.3%) was the most prevalent type of victimization, followed by physical violence (36.0%) and sexual harassment (24.4%). Physical violence and attacks were more common among men, and women were more likely to have experienced sexual harassment and sexual, domestic, and emotional violence. Victimization was significantly associated with all aspects of mental health outcomes, especially PTSD. Emotional abuse and sexual violence were most strongly associated with adverse mental health outcomes. While sexual violence and sexual harassment had similar impacts on mental health among men and women, other forms of victimization disproportionately affected women. Women reported more social support, and social support moderated some of the relationships between victimization and mental health. Social support could, therefore, be a target for mental health interventions following victimization.

Authors

• Erla Katrín Jónsdóttir, Reykjavik University

• Rannveig Sigurvinsdottir, Reykjavik University

• Bryndís Björk Ásgeirsdóttir, Reykjavik University