Intimate partner violence from current or former marital partners and the risk of depressive symptoms in China: A national cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objectives

To examine the association between intimate partner violence (IPV) from current or former marital partners and depressive symptoms among Chinese adults.

Study design

A multi-center cross-sectional survey was conducted.

Methods

The study was conducted between June and August 2023, using a sample representing all 34 provincial-level regions of China. 23,469 participants were involved. IPV from current or former marital partners was assessed using a 5-point Likert scale that measured physical and sexual violence; verbal and emotional abuse; and controlling behaviours. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models adjusted for confounders and stratified analyses were used to examine the association between IPV and depressive symptoms.

Results

Of the participants, 48.2 % reported experiencing IPV, and 49.9 % were found to have depressive symptoms. Exposure to IPV carried significantly higher odds of depressive symptoms, with a nonlinear relationship observed. Physical violence (OR: 4.15; 95 %CI: 3.87–4.46) and sexual violence (OR: 4.44; 95 %CI: 4.14–4.77) were most strongly associated with depressive symptoms. Stratified analyses showed that the association between IPV and depression was stronger among those having injuries in the past year.

Conclusions

This study highlights a significant relationship between IPV from current or former marital partners and depressive symptoms in China, emphasizing the need for targeted mental health interventions for victims of IPV. Addressing IPV is crucial in mitigating depressive symptoms risk, particularly among vulnerable populations.