Mental and Physical Health Correlates for Sexual Intimate Partner Violence Perpetration and Victimization: A Meta-Analysis.

In 30 seconds

This meta-analysis examined mental and physical health correlates of sexual intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration and victimization among men and women, drawing on 168 articles and 352 unique effect sizes. Suicidal ideation, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression were among the strongest correlates of victimization; narcissistic personality disorder, psychopathy, and alcohol use were among the strongest correlates of perpetration. No significant differences in correlate strength between men and women were found, although only five correlates could be compared. Post-traumatic stress was more strongly associated with victimization, while alcohol use was more strongly associated with perpetration.

Key findings

• Suicidal ideation, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression were among the strongest correlates of sexual IPV victimization.
• Narcissistic personality disorder, psychopathy, and alcohol use were among the strongest correlates of sexual IPV perpetration.
• Post-traumatic stress was more strongly associated with victimization than perpetration; alcohol use showed the reverse pattern.
• No significant sex differences in correlate strength were identified, but comparisons were possible for only five correlates.

Why it matters

The findings highlight mental and physical health factors that may be relevant when assessing sexual IPV and considering intervention needs. The differing patterns for victimization and perpetration also caution against treating these experiences as interchangeable. The results can inform research and clinical assessment, while the correlational evidence does not establish that these factors cause IPV.

What to keep in mind

The evidence synthesizes correlational findings and cannot establish causation. Comparisons between men and women were possible for only five correlates.