The impact of different forms of psychological abuse on battered women.
Battered women receiving either shelter (n = 30) or nonshelter services (n = 30) from a domestic violence agency were interviewed regarding psychological abuse and its aftermath. Four types of abuse were derived from factor analysis: ridiculing of traits, criticizing behavior, ignoring, and jealous control. Sheltered women experienced ridicule and jealous/control more often than nonsheltered women. For the entire sample, ridiculing of traits was rated as the most severe form. Ignoring was the strongest predictor of low self-esteem. Both psychological abuse and physical abuse contributed independently to depression and low self-esteem. However, fear of being abused was uniquely predicted by psychological abuse. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
Eastern Michigan University, USA.
L A
LA
Sackett
D G
DG
Saunders
D000328:Adult; D018585:Battered Women / Q000523:psychology*; D003863:Depression / Q000523:psychology; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D005239:Fear; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D007578:Jealousy; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology*; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012649:Self Concept; D013179:Spouse Abuse / Q000523:psychology*