Prevalence of intimate partner violence among married women in Islamic Republic of Iran.

Abstract

Background: Intimate partner violence is a major public health problem worldwide and a leading form of violence against women in Islamic Republic of Iran.

Aim: To estimate the prevalence of intimate partner violence among married women in Islamic Republic of Iran and identify associated socioeconomic factors.

Methods: Using an online questionnaire administered through the Porsline platform, we collected data from 602 married women living in Qazvin Province, Islamic Republic of Iran, who were literate and had access to a smartphone with active internet connection. The study was conducted between February and April 2024. It assessed the psychological, physical, sexual, and intimate partner violence status of the women. The data were analysed using SPSS version 27 and multivariable binary logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with violence among the women.

Results: Overall, the prevalence of intimate partner violence was 53.7%. Of the women, 51.0% reported psychological violence, 24.8% physical violence and 20.6% sexual violence. Spousal drug misuse and longer marriage duration were associated with higher odds of all violence types. Higher household economic status and greater emotional support from the paternal family were associated with lower odds of violence. Physical violence was more frequent among women whose marriages were not initiated through parental introduction.

Conclusion: Socioeconomic disadvantage, limited paternal family support and spousal drug misuse were associated with intimate partner violence among the study participants. Interventions to strengthen resilience among the women are needed, including improved economic opportunities, counselling and engagement, and substance abuse reduction services.