City Research Online

Abstract

Background: Gender differences in the health impacts of different forms of intimate partner violence (IPV) are understudied. The long-term effects of IPV on specific physical health conditions are also under-researched in comparison to effects on general health and mental health.

Objectives: To examine gender differences in the association between IPV and specific physical health conditions, accounting for differences in the types and number of types of IPV experienced.

Design: We used data from the 2014 Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey, a cross-sectional survey using a stratified, multistage random sampling design to cover the household population of England aged 16 years and older.

Methods: Descriptive and multivariable regression analyses of 4,120 women and 2,764 men who had ever had a partner. Lifetime IPV by types (physical, sexual, psychological, and economic), any lifetime and recent IPV, number of IPV types experienced and multiple chronic health conditions experienced over the past 12-months were included in the analyses.

Results: Gender differences were observed in both the prevalence of IPV and associated health conditions. Women were more likely to experience any type and a higher number of IPV types than men. Women’s exposure to any lifetime and 12-month IPV were significantly associated with an increased likelihood of reporting 12 and 11 conditions respectively, while men’s exposure to any lifetime and 12-month IPV were significantly associated with 4 and 1 conditions respectively. Specific IPV types had varied health impacts, particularly among women. A cumulative association was evident for women but not for men.

Conclusion: Healthcare systems need to be mobilised to address IPV as a priority health issue for the female population. Our findings highlight the need for gender-informed approaches in IPV intervention strategies and healthcare provision, emphasising the development of IPV-responsive healthcare systems and comprehensive IPV curricula in medical and health training.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Copyright © 2025, the authors.
Publisher Keywords:	Domestic Violence, Intimate Partner Violence, IPV, Physical Health Conditions, Gender, Men, Women
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HM Sociology H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine
Departments:	School of Policy & Global Affairs School of Policy & Global Affairs > Violence and Society Centre
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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