Type:	Journal Article
Title:	Domestic violence, psychological distress and physical illness among New Zealand women: results from a community-based study
Other Titles:	New Zealand journal of psychology
Authors:	Flett, Ross Kazantzis, Nikolaos Long, Nigel R
Keywords:	Mental health;Health;Risk factors
Year:	2000
Publisher:	New Zealand Psychological Society
Citation:	29 (2), December 2000
Notes:	Presents the findings of a New Zealand study that aimed to measure and identity risk factors for psychological distress and health with specific reference to domestic violence using a sample of 961 women aged 19 – 90 years. Domestic Violence was defined as a serious attack or beating by a family member (such as parent, spouse or child). Reviews the literature on domestic violence and its impact on women’s mental health. Results found that 17% of women experienced domestic violence at least once in their lives, 25% of women were classified as experiencing psychological distress, and 22% of women were experiencing severe symptoms of physical illness. Of this sample an estimated 12% of those experiencing psychological distress and 7% of all cases of serious physical illness were attributable to domestic violence. Domestic violence was found to be the single most important risk factor in predicting psychological distress and physical illness, indicating that the effects of domestic violence may persevere for a long time after the abuse has ended. Argues that this evidence underscores the need for improved policy for Screening for Domestic violence within health services.
URI:	https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/14431
ISSN:	0112-109X
Appears in Collections:	Journal Articles

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