Does Alcohol Consumption Exacerbate the Mental Health Consequences of Interpersonal Violence?

• NCJ Number: 239736
• Journal: Violence Against Women Volume: 18 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2012 Pages: 289-308
• Author(s): Lauren M. Kaplan; Terrence D. Hill; Gini R. Mann-Deibert
• Date Published: March 2012
• Length: 20 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined interpersonal violence and mental health.

Abstract

Although studies show that interpersonal violence is associated with poorer mental health, few studies specify the conditions under which victimization can be more or less detrimental to psychological well-being. Building on previous research, the authors test whether the association between interpersonal violence and psychological distress is moderated by alcohol consumption. The analysis of longitudinal data from the Welfare, Children, and Families project suggests that interpersonal violence is more strongly associated with psychological distress in the context of more frequent intoxication. Programs designed to treat the combination of victimization and heavy alcohol consumption may make unique contributions to the well-being of women. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.