In this sample, physical IPV victimization was associated with anxiety and stress among men. Psychological IPV victimization was associated with depression among men, and with stress among both sexes. Psychological IPV perpetration was associated with stress for both men and women.
These results support the need to consider the mental health consequences of IPV involvement for both men and women. Approximately one in three women all over the world have been a victim of IPV. Nevertheless, some studies about men victimization are available.
Furthermore, one in four of German men surveyed in a qualitative study experienced at least one act of physical violence from their intimate partner and psychological violence was the most frequently reported type BMFSFJ, a.
However, the real extent of IPV is hindered by lack of data in many countries, as IPV is occurring in the private setting and only a small percentage of victims seek help from service providers or report cases to official authorities Langhinrichsen-Rohling, ; WHO, IPV can lead to deleterious consequences of the individuals involved and is a major contributor to various health problems Ellsberg et al. Spencer et al. Studies that examined the link between IPV perpetration and depression are less frequent, but also showed relevant associations Fulu et al.
The physical and mental health consequences have often been reported in the scientific literature but focus primarily on victims Lagdon et al. The consequences of involvement in IPV as a perpetrator, may also be different for men and women, suggesting different etiologies for mental health problems worth of future explorations. This study aims to assess the associations between physical and psychological IPV and the mental health of German adult men and women, considering their involvement as victims or perpetrators, while controlling for known influential factors.
