Psychological symptoms and intensity of partner violence: A study of women attending an anti-violence center in Italy

Intimate partner violence (IPV) can seriously affect the health of victims. Our aims were to analyze the impact of IPV intensity on psychological symptoms in a sample of 151 victimized women (21-74 years old). We collected data through anonymous-auto-administrated questionnaires from a sample of women attending five Anti-violence centers in Italy, and assessed exposure to psychological, physical, sexual, verbal, and stalking partner violence in the last year. We used multiple logistic regression analysis to examine the probability of reporting psychological symptoms associated with IPV. After controlling for the potential confounders, the increase in the intensity of violence was associated with an increase in reported nightmares, panic attacks, and auditory hallucinations, with a dose-response effect. We think that understanding the impact of IPV on women's mental health is necessary to improve their psychological well-being, support their path to liberation, and prevent chronic and more serious suffering.