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Screening for Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence in College Women: Missed Opportunities

2015; Elsevier BV; Volume: 26; Issue: 2 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/j.whi.2015.07.008

1878-4321

Melissa A. Sutherland, Heidi Collins Fantasia, M. Katherine Hutchinson,

Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health

Abstract Background Intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual violence (SV) are significant health issues for college women. Leading organizations and experts recommend screening for IPV/SV in health care settings, including college health centers. Given the prevalence and health risks associated with IPV/SV among college women, it is important to examine screening in this population. Methods A cross-sectional, web-based survey was administered to college women at two universities in the northeastern United States. The survey consisted of demographic questions, assessment of experiences with IPV/SV (lifetime and past 6 months), use of health care services with either a college health center or an off-campus provider, and assessment of health care setting screening practices. Results The sample included 615 college women ( M = 21.5 years). Lifetime experiences of IPV/SV were reported by 222 women (36.1%). Approximately 8.1% of participants ( n = 51) experienced IPV/SV in the past 6 months. Almost 63% ( n = 238) reported not being asked about IPV/SV at their most recent off-campus health care visit. Nearly 90% ( n = 237) reported not being asked about IPV/SV at their most recent visit to the college health center. Conclusions Participants reported high rates of IPV/SV and low rates of violence screening at college health centers and off-campus settings. Routine provider screening for IPV/SV in health care settings can identify women at risk and can lead to interventions that reduce subsequent violence and improve health outcomes and referrals. Theory-based, culture-specific, multilevel interventions are needed to promote IPV/SV screening among college health providers.