Risk Factors Associated with Depressive Symptoms among Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence

One in three women endure intimate partner violence (IPV), with common consequences relating to depression and substance use. The co-occurring relationships of these factors have received limited empirical attention. This study examined how risk factors of IPV, stressful life events, and problematic substance use were related to depressive symptoms among women who have experienced IPV in the past 6 months. Participants included 112 women (Mage=32.26; 67% Black) recruited from community organizations in the U.S. Midsouth. Results from a hierarchical multiple regression analysis indicated that after accounting for age, income, racial minority status, physical health, and violence- and stress-related factors, more frequent IPV and more problematic tobacco use were associated with increased depressive symptomatology. These findings highlight a meaningful connection between problematic tobacco use and depressive symptoms, indicating the need to incorporate tobacco use psychoeducation and cessation strategies into treatment programs for women experiencing depression in the context of IPV