Looking Beneath the Surface

Abstract

Female offenders report higher rates of interpersonal violence (IPV) and mental health problems than incarcerated men. The purpose of this study was to describe the nature of incarcerated women’s ( N = 102) IPV experiences, to investigate characteristics of IPV as predictors of current mental health, and to explore women’s perceptions of their treatment needs. Utilizing multivariate multiple regression analyses, the authors found that recent partner violence, multiple types of IPV, chronic IPV, and distress at the time of the IPV were all significant predictors of current mental health. In narrative responses, participants recognized the connection between IPV and their mental health and indicated a need for trauma-informed interventions.