NCJ Number
221823
Journal
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 18 Issue: 9 Dated: September 2003 Pages: 1035-1054
Date Published
September 2003
Length
20 pages
Annotation
In an attempt to extend existing literature, this study examines the unique effects of partner psychological abuse on physical health in college women and the moderating effects of approach and avoidance coping strategies.
Abstract
Findings indicate that psychological abuse related to illegal drug use, physical and role limitations, negative health perceptions, and cognitive impairment in women. Psychological abuse was not related to sleep hygiene, exercise, problem drinking, or smoking. Approach coping significantly moderated the effects of partner psychological abuse on both binge drinking and health perceptions. Women with low approach coping seem to have more adverse health consequences than women who routinely use more active strategies to cope with negative events. Avoidance coping showed only a trend toward moderating the effects of psychological abuse on illegal drugs, while having a direct effect on smoking, problematic drinking, and role limitations. Utilizing a sample of 151 female college students from a Southeastern university, this study explored the effects of psychological abuse on women’s health behaviors and health status. It then examined the moderating impact of coping on the relationship between psychological abuse and the health outcomes. It was expected that partner psychological abuse would be associated with fewer health promotion behaviors, more health risk behaviors, and poorer health status in women with higher levels of avoidance coping. Tables, references