The Mediating Effects of Empowerment, Interpersonal Conflict, and Social Support on the Violence–PTSD Process among Single Mothers
Publication: Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health
26 March 2013
Abstract
In this study, data from 181 income-assisted single mothers residing in Ontario, Canada, is used to examine the process through which childhood abuse and intimate partner violence (IPV) affect current post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom levels. Structural equation modelling is used to examine the mediating effects of empowerment, social support, and interpersonal conflict on the trauma–PTSD process. Empowerment and social support are highlighted as key protective factors that may be compromised by exposure to abuse/violence and interpersonal conflict. Implications include understanding the ways in which women’s empowerment may be enhanced particularly in the post-trauma period.
Résumé
Dans cette étude, nous examinons des données portant sur 181 mères monoparentales ontariennes vivant de l’aide sociale, et nous analysons comment la violence subie pendant l’enfance et la violence conjugale influencent l’importance des symptômes de trouble de stress post-traumatique (TSPT) chez ces femmes. À l’aide d’une modélisation par équation structurelle, nous évaluons les effets médiateurs de l’autonomisation, du soutien social et des conflits interpersonnels sur le processus du TSPT. Nous montrons que l’autonomisation et le soutien social sont des facteurs de protection dont l’efficacité peut être compromise quand les femmes ont subi de la violence pendant l’enfance et de la violence conjugale ainsi que quand elles vivent des conflits interpersonnels. Cela nous permet donc de mieux comprendre comment une plus grande autonomisation des femmes serait importante, particulièrement pendant la période post-traumatique.
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Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health
Volume 32 • Number 1 • March 2013
Pages: 109 - 124
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Version of record online: 26 March 2013
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Samuels-DennisJoan, BaileyAnnette, KillianKyle, and RaySusan L.. 2013. The Mediating Effects of Empowerment, Interpersonal Conflict, and Social Support on the Violence–PTSD Process among Single Mothers. Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health.
32(1): 109-124. https://doi.org/10.7870/cjcmh-2013-009
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