Adverse Childhood Experiences and Mental Health among Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence.

ABSTRACT

This study described the frequency of different adverse childhood experience (ACE) types described by women with recent IPV and examined the effects of each ACE type on women's mental health. Over 70% of women reported parental separation or divorce, over 40% reported childhood sexual assault, and around 40% had a mother who was treated violently. Childhood physical abuse and sexual assault were associated with more severe posttraumatic stress disorder or depressive symptoms. Comprehensive interventions that address not only the effects of IPV but also the enduring effects of ACEs are needed to promote mental health for survivors of IPV.