A randomized trial of screening for relationship violence in young women.

OBJECTIVES: We conducted a randomized controlled trial of three screening approaches to assess relationship violence disclosure among young women as well as patient and provider satisfaction. METHODS: Reproductive healthcare patients (n=699) aged 15 to 24 years completed one of three approaches to violence screening, that is, basic, healthy relationship, and bidirectional. Screening was embedded in a comprehensive health history using an audio-assisted computer interview (ACASI). Afterward, the patient met with the provider, who reviewed screening results. The patient and provider independently completed an assessment of the process. RESULTS: Medical and violence screening took about 8 minutes with those in the basic screening finishing significantly more quickly. We did detect a significant difference by screening approach for recent physical violence victimization, but no other significant differences emerged between screening approaches. Although patients' or providers' satisfaction and comfort with the screening process were positive, no differences were detected. CONCLUSIONS: An approach that frames questioning within a birectional context enhances detection of recent physical victimization, and can be completed in busy reproductive healthcare setting. All screens were equally and highly regarded by participants and adequately rated by providers.

Attitudes about intimate partner violence screening among an ethnically diverse sample of young women.

PURPOSE: This clinic-based study investigated attitudes about intimate partner violence (IPV) screening among an ethnically diverse population of adolescent and young adult women (n = 645). METHODS: A cross-sectional quantitative and qualitative survey assessed experiences with and attitudes toward IPV screening. RESULTS: Almost all participants supported universal IPV screening and over 90% believed that a health care provider was the most appropriate adult to ask them about interpersonal violence. Young women's concerns toward screening varied by age and violence experience; those most likely to mind being screened were younger, had a history of childhood sexual abuse, and were victims of physical violence in the last year. However, even in these groups, over 70% supported IPV screening. Qualitative analyses suggested that provider qualities and confidentiality will affect the amount of disclosure to provider-initiated screening. Women also raised important questions about how to define IPV in relationships. CONCLUSIONS: Young women generally favor universal screening of interpersonal violence, but provider qualities and confidentiality issues affect responses to screening questions.