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Labrum T, Solomon P, Newhill CE. Involvement of Guns in Nonfatal Conflict Between Adult Children and Their Parents. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024; 39:3464-3482. [PMID: 38406981 DOI: 10.1177/08862605241231621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
The objectives of the present analyses are to examine the frequency, nature, and correlates of nonfatal gun use in incidents of conflict between adult children and their parents, to which police were summoned. A cross-sectional study design was used with all cases of domestic violence to which police were called between adult children and their parents, in Philadelphia, PA, in 2013 (N = 6,248). Data were drawn from forms required to be completed by police when responding to domestic violence calls for assistance. A series of multivariate logistic regression models were estimated. Of the 6,248 incidents, 5,486 involved no weapon, 522 involved a bodily weapon, 190 involved a non-gun external weapon, and 50 involved a gun. Guns were most often used to threaten victims (66%), with guns less often fired (6%) or used to pistol whip victims (4%). Compared to incidents involving a bodily weapon, when guns were involved, offenders were less likely to have pushed, grabbed, or punched the victim and victims were less likely to have visible injuries; however, offenders were more likely to have threatened victims and victims were more likely to be observed as frightened. Police officers intervened similarly to incidents involving guns vs. bodily weapons. This is the first study we are aware of to focus on nonfatal gun use between family members who are not intimate partners, with the results extending much of what is known regarding nonfatal gun use among intimate partners to nonfatal gun use among adult children and parents.
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2
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Spearman KJ, Marineau L, Owolabi A, Alexander KA, Campbell J. Firearms and post-separation abuse: Providing context behind the data on firearms and intimate partner violence. J Adv Nurs 2024; 80:1484-1496. [PMID: 37921256 PMCID: PMC10939897 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study is to provide insight from maternal survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) describing their experiences with their ex-partners' firearm ownership, access, storage and behaviours in the context of co-parenting and separation. DESIGN We conducted a qualitative descriptive study informed by the IPV and Coparenting Model. METHODS The analytic sample consists of self-identified maternal survivors (n = 14) who completed semi-structured qualitative interviews between January and May 2023 describing experiences of post-separation abuse. Participants were recruited through social media and domestic violence advocacy and legal aid organizations. In the interview guide, participants were asked one item about firearm exposure: Have you or your children had any experiences with guns and your ex-partner that made you or your children feel scared? Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Interview transcripts were managed and coded in ATLAS.ti using a codebook. Codes were applied using descriptive content analysis, discrepancies reconciled and themes related to firearm exposure in the context of post-separation abuse identified. RESULTS Six themes emerged related to firearm experiences and post-separation abuse: (1) gun ownership (2) gun access; (3) unsafe storage; (4) direct and symbolic threats; (5) involving the children; (6) survivors' protective actions. CONCLUSION This manuscript provides context on how abusive ex-partners' firearm ownership, access and threats cause terror and pervasive fear for mothers and children following separation. Analysis of qualitative data provides important insights into opportunities to address firearm injury prevention. IMPACT Findings add to the contextual understanding of how survivors of IPV experience non-fatal firearm abuse. Existing quantitative data may not capture the full extent of fear caused by perpetrators' gun ownership access and symbolic threats. Data from this study can help inform firearm injury prevention efforts. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION The authors would like to acknowledge and thank the individuals who helped in cognitive testing of the interview guide prior to conducting interviews with participants, including (3) survivors of post-separation abuse. The authors would also like to acknowledge domestic violence advocates and those individuals who helped with recruitment and connected us with participants. Importantly, with deep gratitude, the authors would like to thank the participants who generously shared their time and stories with us.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lea Marineau
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Adebola Owolabi
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Hans Z, Cooper CE, Zeoli AM. Examining the role of firearm involvement in repeat intimate partner violence assaults. Inj Epidemiol 2024; 11:9. [PMID: 38439114 PMCID: PMC10910667 DOI: 10.1186/s40621-024-00492-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intimate partner violence (IPV) remains a pervasive and complex issue with significant social and public health implications. The nexus of firearms and intimate partner violence (IPV) is an especially dangerous one. However, little is known about how firearm involvement can influence the risk of repeat IPV assaults. METHODS We use data from 346 male perpetrated IPV incidents reported to the Detroit Police Department between December 2016 and April 2017 to examine the role of firearm involvement in IPV recidivism during a 5 and half year follow up period. Employing a conditional gap-time frailty model that accommodates heterogeneity among individuals through a frailty term, we analyze time to multiple IPV assaults that occur over the follow up period. We identify various pathways through which firearms impact the likelihood of subsequent IPV incidents, including intimidation, threats, and use of firearms, while controlling for observable perpetrator characteristics to understand the explicit roles of firearms. RESULTS Firearm involvement at the index assault was not associated with IPV recidivism. However, involvement of firearms in past IPV assaults significantly increased the risk of subsequent physical IPV. The discrepancy is likely arising from a high degree of censoring among individuals who were armed with a firearm during the index assault. CONCLUSION Our research reveals a nuanced relationship between firearm involvement and IPV recidivism, shedding light on the multifaceted dynamics at play. By elucidating the intricate dynamics at the intersection of firearms and intimate partner violence, our study underscores the need for targeted policy interventions and preventative measures aimed at reducing IPV recidivism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Hans
- Institute of Firearm Injury Prevention, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Chiara E Cooper
- Institute of Firearm Injury Prevention, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - April M Zeoli
- Institute of Firearm Injury Prevention, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Ellyson AM, Adhia A, Mustafa A, Lyons VH, Shanahan S, Rowhani-Rahbar A. Threats, Violence, and Weapon Use Against Children in Domestic Violence Protection Orders. Pediatrics 2024; 153:e2023062293. [PMID: 38298059 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-062293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Childhood exposure to domestic violence is common, but the overlap between threats and violence against children and weapon/firearm use has not been well studied. The objectives of this study were to: assess differences in respondent firearm access and the use of weapons in granted domestic violence protection orders (DVPOs) with and without minors (individuals <18 years of age); and characterize the frequency and characteristics of threats and acts of violence against minors. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of a random sample of granted DVPOs from 2014-2020 in King County, Washington. We examined the use of threats, violence, and weapons by restrained individuals (ie, respondents) by reviewing and abstracting information from DVPO case files. RESULTS Respondent weapon use and firearm possession were more common among DVPOs including minors than DVPOs not including minors (weapon use: 38.2% and 33.0%; firearm possession: 23.1% and 19.1%, respectively). Almost 2 in 3 DVPOs including minors (1338 of 2029) involved threats or violence directed at a minor perpetrated by the DVPO respondent. About 1 in 3 (32.5%) DVPOs documented explicit threats, and 1 in 2 (48.9%) documented violence. Over two-thirds (680 of 993, 68.5%) of acts of violence directed at minors included a weapon. CONCLUSIONS We found higher lethality risk (weapon use and respondent firearm access/ownership) among DVPOs including minors. Many minors experienced threats and acts of violence involving weapons and firearms by DVPO respondents. Evidence-based safety planning strategies and training of judicial officers are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice M Ellyson
- Departments of Pediatrics
- Firearm Injury and Policy Research Program
- Center for Child Health, Behavior, and Development, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
| | - Avanti Adhia
- Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing
- Firearm Injury and Policy Research Program
| | - Ayah Mustafa
- Departments of Pediatrics
- Firearm Injury and Policy Research Program
| | - Vivian H Lyons
- Firearm Injury and Policy Research Program
- Allies in Healthier Systems for Health & Abundance in Youth, Department of Psychiatry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Sandra Shanahan
- Regional Domestic Violence Firearms Enforcement Unit, King County, Washington
| | - Ali Rowhani-Rahbar
- Departments of Pediatrics
- Epidemiology
- Firearm Injury and Policy Research Program
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Sabri B, Campbell JC. Firearm-Related Risks and Consequences for Immigrant Women in Abusive Relationships: Barriers to Reporting Threats to Safety and Recommendations for Safety Planning. JOURNAL OF AGGRESSION, MALTREATMENT & TRAUMA 2023; 33:407-431. [PMID: 38666244 PMCID: PMC11042680 DOI: 10.1080/10926771.2023.2224257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Firearms are the leading cause of intimate partner violence-related murders of women in the US. This study aimed to understand differing consequences of partners' firearm possession on abused women and barriers women face in reporting threats to safety due to the partners' possession of a firearm.. Additionally, the study explored participants' perceptions of effective approaches to risk assessments and safety planning with women who are at-risk for being harmed by their partners' possession of a firearm. Qualitative semi-structured interviews with seventeen service providers and 45 immigrant women survivors of intimate partner violence were conducted. Data were analyzed using content analysis procedure. Participants shared that the partners' possession of a firearm can increase risk for firearm-related injury or fatality in situations of escalation of violence. Abused women living with a partner with firearm possession live in constant fear or threat. The presence of a firearm can also be a trigger of unwanted memories of the past and can have legal and other consequences for survivors. Impediments to reporting threats to safety were barriers such as lack of knowledge of firearm-related risks and gender and social norms. The findings can be informative for safety planning with survivors of IPV whose partners own or have access to a firearm. Comprehensive assessment of risks and barriers can be used to develop individualized and tailored safety plans for survivors with a partner who possesses a firearm.
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Tomsich EA, Schleimer J, Wright MA, Stewart SL, Wintemute GJ, Kagawa RMC. Intimate Partner Violence and Subsequent Violent Offending Among Handgun Purchasers. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP21447-NP21475. [PMID: 34894835 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211057268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV) often reoffend, and firearm access increases risk of severe injury or fatality. Prior research identifies an association between a history of violent misdemeanor convictions among handgun purchasers and increased risk of subsequent arrest for a violent crime; the risk associated specifically with an IPV criminal history remains largely unexplored. The current study examined a cohort of 76,311 California adults who legally purchased a handgun in 2001 and followed them through 2013. Compared with purchasers who had no criminal history at the time of purchase, those with a history of only IPV (n = 178) charges were at increased risk of subsequent arrest for a violent Crime Index crime (murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault; adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 2.6; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.4-5.1), any violent crime (AHR, 3.2; 95% CI: 2.0-5.1), and an IPV crime (AHR, 5.2; 95% CI: 3.0-9.0). Purchasers with both IPV and non-IPV charges demonstrated the greatest risk of re-arrest relative to those with no criminal history. Despite the strength of the relationship between IPV and subsequent arrest, a small proportion of handgun purchasers with an IPV criminal history were re-arrested for firearm violence crimes, limiting application for risk assessment purposes. Results affirm prior research identifying IPV as a risk factor for future offending.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Tomsich
- Violence Prevention Research Program, Department of Emergency Medicine, 8789UC Davis Medical Center, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Julia Schleimer
- Violence Prevention Research Program, Department of Emergency Medicine, 8789UC Davis Medical Center, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Mona A Wright
- Violence Prevention Research Program, Department of Emergency Medicine, 8789UC Davis Medical Center, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Susan L Stewart
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, 8789University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Garen J Wintemute
- Violence Prevention Research Program, Department of Emergency Medicine, 8789UC Davis Medical Center, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Rose M C Kagawa
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, 8789University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Kafonek K, Gray AC, Parker KF. Understanding Escalation Through Intimate Partner Homicide Narratives. Violence Against Women 2022; 28:3635-3656. [PMID: 34962182 DOI: 10.1177/10778012211068057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The study aims to expand our understanding of escalation from intimate partner violence to intimate partner homicide (IPH) by exploring the known circumstances leading up to a lethal event. The study draws on qualitative data from law enforcement reports and coroner/medical examiner reports within the National Violent Death Reporting System to identify themes preceding and surrounding IPH incidents. Findings support the utility of risk assessments in identifying escalation while illustrating the complex ways that violence between current or former intimate partners can escalate to lethality, particularly the role of separation and the use of firearms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Kafonek
- Department of Criminology, 14665California State University, Fresno, CA, USA
| | - Andrew C Gray
- Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, 5972University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Karen F Parker
- Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, 5972University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
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Lynch KR, Logan TK. " Always Know Where the Gun Is": Service Providers Perceptions of Firearm Access, Violence, and Safety Planning During the COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP19827-NP19856. [PMID: 34634953 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211046270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Given the heightened risk for fatality and known non-fatal harm firearms pose in abusive situations, it is critical to consider the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on firearm-related abuse and safety planning-particularly considering the surge in firearm sales in 2020. This study documented the impact of the pandemic on firearm access and violence, advice and safety planning surrounding firearms, and firearm-related abuse tactics through the perspective of victim service providers across the US participants included victim service professionals from both rural (n = 93) and urban/suburban (i.e., non-rural; n = 78) areas who worked with victims of gender-based violence (i.e., intimate partner abuse and dating violence, child abuse, elder abuse, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking victims). Results revealed that nearly half of participants reported that abusers threatening to shoot victims or others became more frequent since the start of the pandemic, while nearly 30% reported that homicide involving firearms became more frequent during the pandemic. Further, nearly 40% of participants indicated an increase in firearm sales during pandemic-with higher sales in non-rural versus rural areas. Common themes related to safety planning with firearms included advising the victim to contact the system for help, assessing the location of firearms and/or remove the firearms, and leaving the abuser. The results stress the importance for safety planning around firearms when victims are isolated with an abuser at home and potential impact of abuser firearm access on public safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie R Lynch
- Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice, College for Health, Community and Policy, 12346University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - T K Logan
- Department of Behavioral Science, Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, 4530University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Iwundu CN, Homan ME, Moore AR, Randall P, Daundasekara SS, Hernandez DC. Firearm Violence in the United States: An Issue of the Highest Moral Order. Public Health Ethics 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/phe/phac017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Firearm violence in the United States produces over 36,000 deaths and 74,000 sustained firearm-related injuries yearly. The paper describes the burden of firearm violence with emphasis on the disproportionate burden on children, racial/ethnic minorities, women and the healthcare system. Second, this paper identifies factors that could mitigate the burden of firearm violence by applying a blend of key ethical theories to support population level interventions and recommendations that may restrict individual rights. Such recommendations can further support targeted research to inform and implement interventions, policies and laws related to firearm access and use, in order to significantly reduce the burden of firearm violence on individuals, health care systems, vulnerable populations and society-at-large. By incorporating a blended public health ethics to address firearm violence, we propose a balance between societal obligations and individual rights and privileges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chisom N Iwundu
- Department of Rehabilitation and Health Services, University of North Texas , Denton, TX , USA
| | - Mary E Homan
- Department of Ethics and Theology, Providence-St Joseph Health , Renton, WA , USA
| | - Ami R Moore
- Department of Rehabilitation and Health Services, University of North Texas , Denton, TX , USA
| | - Pierce Randall
- Albany Medical College, Alden March Bioethics Institute , Albany, NY , USA
| | - Sajeevika S Daundasekara
- Cizik School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston , Houston, TX , USA
| | - Daphne C Hernandez
- Cizik School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston , Houston, TX , USA
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Muthulingam T, Edirisinghe PAS, Wijewardhane HP, Thivaharan Y, Jayasundara MMS, Borukgama N, Kulathunga DL, Alwis DN, Govinnage PS, Kitulwatte IDG. A Study on Victims of Intimate Partner Violence Reported to Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Sri Lanka During 2019-2021. Acad Forensic Pathol 2022; 12:95-111. [PMID: 36093371 PMCID: PMC9459399 DOI: 10.1177/19253621221119074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a common issue in any society and the reported cases are just the tip of an iceberg as most of the victims are reluctant to come to the criminal justice system. Forensic experts are often encountering the victims who chose to seek justice. Evaluation of the nature, consequences, and underlying factors are needed in planning preventive measures. Objectives To describe the patterns and associated factors of IPV among victims who reported to Office of the Judicial Medical Officer of Colombo North Teaching Hospital and to specifically describe the patterns prior and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A retrospective descriptive study based on 471 medicolegal records of the victims who had undergone medicolegal examination following IPV during last two years (March 2019 to February 2021). Results Out of 471, 206 cases were reported prepandemic and 265 reported postpandemic periods. Even though majority were females there were 21 males. Types of abuse were complex and often interrelated. There were 463 who had experienced physical injuries while there were 20 who had been subjected to sexual violence. Face was the commonest target of assault (63%). Substance abuse was identified as the commonest predisposing factor (56%). Even though repeated abuse was common, 42.5% of the victims had never made any complaints to the police. Despite multiple complains, 39.7% had experienced repeated violence. Conclusion Victims of IPV are silently suffering for many long years. Failure in the response from authorities was identified. COVID-19 pandemic has become an additional risk factor for IPV. Strengthening of legal and social responses is the need of the hour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanushan Muthulingam
- Thanushan Muthulingam, MBBS, DLM, Office of
Judicial Medical Officer, Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, LK-1 Western
Province 001400, Sri Lanka;
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11
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Logan TK, Landhuis J. Should we be paying more attention to firearm threats in ex-partner stalking cases? BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 2022; 40:619-639. [PMID: 36030494 DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study examined relationship abuse, firearm threats, and threat credibility factors as well as help-seeking for (ex)partner-stalking victims with partners who did (n = 153) and did not own guns (n = 263). Victims with (ex)partners who owned guns experienced increased coercive control and physical violence, a longer duration of stalking, and more threats during the relationship and during the course of stalking. Victims reported that (ex)partner gun owners had more extremist beliefs and other risk factors, and more of them believed their (ex)partner was extremely capable of harming them. Most, regardless of partner gun ownership, turned to informal sources of help, while about one-quarter of victims whose partners did not own guns tried to obtain a protective order or talked to police, compared to about 40% of stalking victims with abusers who owned guns. Fear of harm from guns, coercive control during the relationship, and believing their partner was capable of harming harm them were all associated with an increased number of help-seeking sources whereas being threatened with a firearm and abuser gun ownership were not.
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Affiliation(s)
- T K Logan
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jennifer Landhuis
- Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center (SPARC), Aequitas, Washington, Columbia, USA
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12
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Carpenter RK, Stinson JD. Neighborhood-Level Predictors of Sexual Violence Across Intimate Partner and Non-Intimate Partner Relationships: A Case-Control Study. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2022; 34:716-743. [PMID: 34693797 DOI: 10.1177/10790632211051680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Ample research explores individual factors associated with sexual violence, yet individual, dyadic, and environmental influences on intimate partner sexual violence (IPSV) occurring in the larger context of non-intimate partner violence (NIPSV) remain relatively unexplored. The current study aimed to determine the extent to which county-level indicators in combination with individual and dyadic factors are associated with sexual violence across relationship types. Reported IPSV and NIPSV cases were obtained from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation's (TBI) online incident-based reporting system. County-level variables indicative of neighborhood physical disorder, violent crime, income inequality, firearm prevalence, and community alcohol use patterns were retrieved from the online resource County Health Rankings and Roadmaps. Using a nested case-control design, we determined significant sexual violence risk within younger cohorts and across relationship types, finding three significant county-level factors: 1) income inequality, 2) rate of firearm fatalities, and 3) percentage of female residents. Suggested prevention and intervention efforts include targeting younger age groups for IPSV and NIPSV education, developing resources for a range of relational partners, improving legal access and law enforcement training for reporting, and continued examination of the role of firearms.
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13
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Lynch KR, Boots DP, Jackson DB, Renzetti CM. Firearm-related Abuse and Protective Order Requests Among Intimate Partner Violence Victims. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP12973-NP12997. [PMID: 33752502 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211001474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Firearms play a critical role in the murder of intimate partner violence (IPV) victims and there is evidence that laws prohibiting protective order (PO) respondents from possessing a firearm reduce IPV fatalities. However, little research has compared specific abuse tactics involving firearms among victims who have and have not sought a PO against an abuser. This study investigates IPV victims' experiences with a range of firearm-related abuse tactics across victim race/ethnicity, in addition to the relationship between firearm IPV and PO requests, above and beyond IPV not involving firearms. Questionnaires were administered to 215 female victims recruited from six domestic violence shelters in Texas. Over one-half of victims who sought a PO were threatened to be shot by their abuser and victims who experienced high levels of firearm abuse incurred a 302% increase in the odds of requesting a PO. There were no significant differences between White, Black, and Hispanic victims regarding firearm IPV tactics. The results shed light on the magnitude of risk IPV victims can experience when seeking a PO against an abusive partner.
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14
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Spies AJ, Steyn M, Brits D. Diagnostic accuracies of CTs, X-rays and Lodox to detect blunt force trauma in adults, using a pig model. MEDICINE, SCIENCE, AND THE LAW 2022; 62:134-143. [PMID: 34825618 DOI: 10.1177/00258024211049591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The accurate radiological detection of skeletal trauma is crucial for the investigation of blunt force trauma (BFT) cases. The sensitivities of CTs, X-rays and Lodox in identifying BFT fractures and minimum number of impacts in pigs, used as proxies for adult humans, were assessed. Ten human sized pig carcasses were struck with a mallet and scanned, after which the number of fractures and minimum number of impacts detected radiologically were recorded. Pig carcasses were then macerated, and the defleshed, skeletonized remains were considered the gold standard as far as number and location of fractures were concerned. CTs were most sensitive in identifying fractures and impacts in all body regions, with overall sensitivities of 55.4% and 71.5% respectively, while X-rays and Lodox had sensitivities of 25.8% and 29.3% for fractures, and 43.5% and 41.1% for impacts, respectively. All modalities were highly specific for identifying fractures (CT: 99.1%; X-ray: 98.9%; Lodox: 99.4%). CTs should be used to analyze blunt force trauma when a radiological assessment is required, but an examination of the defleshed bones remains the gold standard for the deceased whenever feasible. X-rays and Lodox have limited diagnostic value in these cases and relying on them to detect fractures may compromise the accurate forensic investigation of blunt trauma victims. However, the use of Lodox for initial screening of major trauma is still of value. Sensitivities are generally higher for detecting fractures in pigs compared to piglets, indicating that increased diagnostic value is achieved when imaging pigs compared to piglets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Joy Spies
- Human Variation and Identification Research Unit (HVIRU), School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, 37708University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
| | - Maryna Steyn
- Human Variation and Identification Research Unit (HVIRU), School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, 37708University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
| | - Desiré Brits
- Human Variation and Identification Research Unit (HVIRU), School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, 37708University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
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Jayasundara MS, Thivaharan Y, Muthulingam T, Borukgama N, Kulathunga DL, Kitulwatte IDG. Medicolegal Aspects of Victims of Assault Admitted to a Tertiary Care Hospital in Sri Lanka. Acad Forensic Pathol 2021; 12:15-22. [DOI: 10.1177/19253621211065616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Violence with physical assault is a common cause of morbidity and mortality prevalent but not limited to underdeveloped countries. The opinion of the forensic expert is often indispensable in such cases to determine the penalties. This study was planned to describe the pattern of presentation of the victims and evaluate the strengths and limitations in formulating a scientific medicolegal opinion based on the findings of the victim. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study based on the case records of the victims of assault admitted to Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka, was conducted for four years. Results: Out of the 400 victims, the majority (72% n = 290) were males and of the age-group of 21 to 40 (n = 216). The reason for assault in the majority was sudden provocation (n = 99, 25%), followed by previous long-duration enmity (n = 89, 22%). The majority (83%) had isolated blunt force trauma, and the injuries were nongrievous (74%). Defense injuries were significantly associated with attempted defense (p = 0.000) and sharp force trauma (p = 0.002). The underlying reason for the assault was not significantly associated with the causative weapon (p = 0.228) or body region injured (p = 0.195). Conclusions: Even though the presentation and the pattern of injures are definitely of value in formulating a scientific opinion, the study identified the limitations of the forensic experts, and the need for a holistic approach at the investigations was highlighted.
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Lynch KR, Jackson DB, Logan TK. Coercive Control, Stalking, and Guns: Modeling Service Professionals' Perceived Risk of Potentially Fatal Intimate Partner Gun Violence. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:NP7997-NP8018. [PMID: 30943829 DOI: 10.1177/0886260519839419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner homicides often involve coercive control prior to the murder while stalking following separation has been associated with control within the relationship as well as with lethal violence. The goal of the present study was to investigate how rural and urban community professionals who encounter intimate partner violence (IPV) victims perceive potential risk factors for intimate partner homicide related to firearms and coercive control. Criminal justice and victim service professionals (N = 133) from one urban and four rural communities participated in structured key informant interviews. A purposeful sampling procedure was employed to target professionals with expertise in domestic violence and/or firearms, followed by snowball sampling to maximize the response rate. The only risk factor that was directly associated with perceived risk of potentially fatal intimate partner gun violence was the perceived risk of an abuser threatening a victim with a gun. However, coercive control, separation, and stalking all mediated the relationship between the perceived risk of an abuser's access to a gun and the perceived risk of an abuser threatening the victim with a gun. These results highlight the importance of controlling behavior following separation for risk assessment and that participants in the present study were aware of the potentially dangerous ramifications of such nonphysically violent risk factors for the risk of injury or death by a firearm at the hands of an intimate partner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - T K Logan
- University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
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Kafka JM, Moracco KE, Williams DS, Hoffman CG. What is the role of firearms in nonfatal intimate partner violence? Findings from civil protective order case data. Soc Sci Med 2021; 283:114212. [PMID: 34271368 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV) use firearms to injure, scare, and manipulate their partners. Abusers who have a firearm in their homes are more likely to threaten and/or kill their partner. To date, however, limited research documents the nature of IPV perpetrator firearm access or the prevalence of nonfatal firearm abuse behaviors. METHODS Federal law restricts firearm access for IPV perpetrators in qualifying domestic violence protective order (DVPO) cases and information about firearms should be disclosed during the DVPO process. We used secondary data from civil DVPO cases (n = 406) in North Carolina that were collected using a representative sampling strategy. Data were from DVPO case files and structured DVPO hearing observations. We conducted a content analysis to record IPV perpetrator access to guns and reported firearm abuse behaviors. We used a linear regression analysis to determine whether IPV perpetrator gun access was associated with higher levels of reported abuse. We also examined factors associated with perpetration of nonfatal firearm abuse. RESULTS We found evidence of perpetrator firearm access in nearly half of all cases (46%, n = 108). Controlling for covariates, gun access was significantly associated with higher levels of reported IPV (b = 0.5, p < .001). Firearm abuse was reported in nearly one out of four cases (23.1%, n = 101), and often entailed spoken threats, displaying a gun, or holding a partner at gun point. The only factors associated with firearm abuse in the multivariate models were related to English language speaking/fluency. CONCLUSIONS Gun access should be considered an indicator for severe IPV. We must ensure that existing legal mechanisms to identify and restrict abuser access to firearms are fully implemented and enforced. Firearm abuse often manifests as non-physical coercive control which is traumatic and has the potential to escalate to homicide, even in the absence of past physical violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie M Kafka
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School for Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 359 Rosenau Hall, CB# 7440, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; University of North Carolina Injury Prevention Research Center, 359 Rosenau Hall, CB# 7440, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Kathryn E Moracco
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School for Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 359 Rosenau Hall, CB# 7440, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; University of North Carolina Injury Prevention Research Center, 359 Rosenau Hall, CB# 7440, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Deanna S Williams
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School for Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 359 Rosenau Hall, CB# 7440, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; University of North Carolina Injury Prevention Research Center, 359 Rosenau Hall, CB# 7440, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Claire G Hoffman
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School for Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 359 Rosenau Hall, CB# 7440, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; University of North Carolina Injury Prevention Research Center, 359 Rosenau Hall, CB# 7440, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
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Stansfield R, Semenza D, Steidley T. Public guns, private violence: The association of city-level firearm availability and intimate partner homicide in the United States. Prev Med 2021; 148:106599. [PMID: 33957154 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2021.106599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This city-level study examines the association of federally licensed firearm dealers (FFLs) and measures of illegal firearm availability with the risk of intimate partner homicide. Annual data for a sample of 286 large cities in the United States were collected for the years 2010-2019, incorporating city-level information on the number of gun-perpetrated homicides, the rate of licensed firearm dealers, and guns reported lost or stolen. All data were compiled and analyzed in 2020. Negative binomial models were used to assess the relation of firearm availability and gun homicide by intimate partners, in comparison to gun homicide between non-intimates. Results indicate that a higher rate of licensed firearm dealers was associated with a higher risk of intimate partner homicide, although more pronounced in states with lower-than-average existing gun ownership. This association was robust to different analytical methods and alternate ways of capturing illegal guns. A supplementary analysis using unique data from The Trace further supports the argument that FFL presence is a risk factor for intimate partner firearm homicide specifically, but not necessarily firearm homicide characterized by other motives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Stansfield
- Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice, Rutgers University, Camden, NJ, USA.
| | - Daniel Semenza
- Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice, Rutgers University, Camden, NJ, USA
| | - Trent Steidley
- Sociology and Criminology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
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Montanez J, Donley A. Opinions on a Firearm Prohibition Policy That Targets Intimate Partner Violence. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:NP5809-NP5838. [PMID: 30394823 DOI: 10.1177/0886260518807213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Firearms and intimate partner violence form a nexus of dangerousness and lethality. But, some policies aim to separate the two phenomena. The present study aims to fill a gap in the literature focusing on opinions toward a firearm prohibition for persons with injunctions for protection in effect against them by analyzing data from a convenience sample of 290 undergraduate students at a large research university in Florida, United States. Overall, any agreement with the policy was high. Multivariate analyses indicated that females/women and gender identity minorities, together, tended to express more agreement with firearm prohibition than males/men. Multivariate analysis also showed that participants who experienced sexual violence also displayed more agreement with the prohibition when compared to individuals who did not experience sexual violence victimization. "Lower" severity sexual violence victimization had the strongest relationship with policy opinions. Possible explanations for the gender difference in opinions include the implications of hegemonic masculinity and power differentials among genders. A possible explanation for the relationship between sexual violence victimization and policy opinions includes empathy. Policy implications and directions for future research include investigating the potential relationship gap in firearm prohibitions within Florida, engaging college men to change the conceptions around firearms through educational intervention, harnessing the tech-savvy power that college students have to generate awareness of policies, and considering interconnections among opinions, polyvictimization, and firearm policies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy Donley
- University of Central Florida, Orlando, USA
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Adhia A, Lyons VH, Moe CA, Rowhani-Rahbar A, Rivara FP. Nonfatal use of firearms in intimate partner violence: Results of a national survey. Prev Med 2021; 147:106500. [PMID: 33667471 PMCID: PMC8096701 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2021.106500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Research on intimate partner violence (IPV) and firearms has typically focused on homicide, so there is limited information on how firearms are used in nonfatal ways, particularly in community samples. We sought to estimate the prevalence of nonfatal firearm abuse in the context of IPV, understand how and against whom firearms are used, and examine consequences of this abuse. Using a national web-based survey of US adults who experienced IPV (n = 958), we asked respondents about experiences with nonfatal firearm abuse, including the frequency of firearm behaviors and consequences. Based on screening data weighted to be nationally representative, we estimated that 9.8% (95% CI: 9.0%, 10.6%) of US adults - or nearly 25 million - have experienced nonfatal firearm abuse by an intimate partner (i.e., were threatened with a firearm, had a firearm used on them, or were threatened by a partner who possessed or had easy access to a firearm). IPV victims who experienced nonfatal firearm abuse commonly reported experiencing other forms of IPV. The most common behaviors included the partner displaying a firearm (67.5%) and threatening to shoot the victim (63.0%). The majority (80.5%) of perpetrators were male, and 49.2% of respondents had a child at home at the time of abuse. The most common consequences of nonfatal firearm abuse were concerns for safety (86.2%) and feeling fearful (82.7%). Additionally, 43.1% of respondents reported physical injury, and 37.4% missed days of work or school. Practice and policy around firearm access for IPV perpetrators should attend to nonfatal firearm use against intimate partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avanti Adhia
- Firearm Injury & Policy Research Program, Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America.
| | - Vivian H Lyons
- Firearm Injury & Policy Research Program, Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America; Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Caitlin A Moe
- Firearm Injury & Policy Research Program, Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Ali Rowhani-Rahbar
- Firearm Injury & Policy Research Program, Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Frederick P Rivara
- Firearm Injury & Policy Research Program, Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
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21
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Burrell TD, Voegtline KM, Mistry KB. An Association Between Maternal Intimate Partner Physical Violence and a Loaded Firearm in the Home. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:NP4495-NP4513. [PMID: 30003824 DOI: 10.1177/0886260518786503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
A loaded firearm in the home increases the risk of firearm-related mortality. Furthermore, firearms are often used in fatal cases of intimate partner physical violence (IPPV) during pregnancy and in the postpartum period. Young children are often caught in the crossfire. Although firearms are more prevalent in homes with IPPV compared with homes without IPPV, little is known about the relationship between a loaded firearm and maternal IPPV. The objective was to determine whether maternal IPPV in the context of additional psychosocial factors is associated with a loaded firearm in the home. We analyzed population-based survey data (2004-2011) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) in eight states for which questions on firearms were included. Chi-square analysis of independence was used to determine differences between mothers reporting both IPPV and a loaded firearm to mothers reporting IPPV only or a loaded firearm only. Multivariable weighted logistic regression examined the association between IPPV and presence of a loaded firearm in the home (adjusting for sociodemographic and psychosocial factors). Of the 43,845 mothers in our sample, 5.3% mothers reported storing a loaded firearm in the home and 6.7% reported maternal IPPV. Among mothers reporting IPPV, 5% also reported a loaded firearm. When adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics only, maternal IPPV was significantly associated with storing a loaded firearm in the home (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.39; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.01, 1.91]). However, after additionally considering psychosocial factors, there was no longer a statistically significant association between maternal IPPV and storing a loaded firearm in the home (aOR = 1.31; 95% CI = [0.93, 1.84]). Contextual factors play an important role in understanding the complex relationship between maternal IPPV and the presence of a loaded firearm in the home, and maternal IPPV should be considered in efforts to promote firearm safety.
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Leuenberger L, Lehman E, McCall-Hosenfeld J. Perceptions of firearms in a cohort of women exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV) in Central Pennsylvania. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2021; 21:20. [PMID: 33419432 PMCID: PMC7791958 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-020-01134-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Almost one-half of U.S. women will experience intimate partner violence (IPV), defined as physical, sexual, or psychological harm by a current or former partner. IPV is associated with an increased risk of homicide, with firearms as the most commonly used weapon. We designed this study to better understand the correlation of interpersonal trauma exposures and demographic factors on firearm perceptions among a cohort of IPV-exposed women. METHODS Two hundred sixty-seven women in central Pennsylvania with exposure to IPV were surveyed about perceptions of gun access, safety, and gun presence in the home. Trauma variables included IPV type, IPV recency, unwanted sexual exposure, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Multivariable analyses examined three questions examining firearm perceptions controlling for trauma exposures and demographics. RESULTS Ease of firearm acquisition: Women who were older (mean 44.92 years +/- SD 12.05), compared to women who were younger (40.91 +/- SD 11.81 years) were more likely to describe it as easy or very easy to acquire a gun (aOR 1.05, 95%CI 1.004, 1.10). Perceived safety in the proximity of a gun: Women with the highest ACE score were less likely to feel safe with a gun nearby (aOR 0.31, 95%CI 0.14, 0.67). Odds of guns in the home: Women who were divorced or separated (aOR 0.22, 95%CI 0.09, 0.54), women were widowed or single (aOR0.23, 95%CI 0.08, 0.67), and women who were partnered (aOR 0.45 95%CI 0.20, 0.97) had lower odds of having a gun in the home, compared to married women. There was no significant effect of the trauma variables on the odds of having a gun at home. CONCLUSIONS Women with more severe childhood trauma felt less safe around firearms, but trauma exposures did not predict the perception of gun prevalence in the local community or gun ownership. Instead, demographic factors of marriage predicted presence of a gun in the home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Leuenberger
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, 338 Catherine St, Apt 1, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, USA.
| | - Erik Lehman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Jennifer McCall-Hosenfeld
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, USA
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23
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Firearm exposure and the health of high-risk intimate partner violence victims. Soc Sci Med 2021; 270:113644. [PMID: 33385621 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE The negative physical and mental health consequences of intimate partner violence (IPV) have been well-documented, as those who are exposed to trauma experience more physical health issues. Further, an abuser's direct access to a firearm drastically increases the risk for fatality, which can exacerbate ongoing stress and trauma in an abusive relationship. However, very little research has investigated the intersection of exposure to firearms and adverse health outcomes in the context of IPV. OBJECTIVE This study investigates the sensitivity of firearm exposure in IPV contexts by examining if abusive partner firearm ownership-regardless of actual use of a gun in the abuse-is associated with negative health outcomes. METHODS The research team administered questionnaires to IPV victims (N = 215) from six domestic violence shelters across rural and urban locations in a single state. RESULTS Having an abusive partner who owned a firearm was associated with significantly worse physical health-above and beyond IPV experienced in the relationship. Even so, IPV involving firearms was not significantly associated with physical health beyond partner firearm ownership. The relationship between partner firearm ownership and negative health outcomes was primarily attenuated by sleep disturbances among victims. CONCLUSIONS The results provide initial information about the role that firearms play in adverse victim health beyond injuries (e.g., gunshot wounds) and fatalities.
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24
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Kongkaewpaisan N, El Hechi M, El Moheb M, Orlas CP, Ortega G, Mendoza MA, Parks J, Saillant NN, Kaafarani HMA, Mendoza AE. No place like home: A national study on firearm-related injuries in the American household. Am J Surg 2020; 220:1599-1604. [PMID: 32409008 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2020.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to examine the prevalence of, and describe factors associated with, firearm-related injuries in American households. METHODS Using the 2010-2016 ACS-TQIP database, all ICD-9/10 external causes of injury for firearm-related injuries were queried with the place of occurrence designated as "home". Causes of injury were identified as assault, intentional self-injury, and unintentional injury. Univariate then multivariable regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with each injury type. RESULTS 12,657 firearm-related injuries in households were identified. Of those, 49.9% were victims of assault, 35.7% were intentional self-injury, and 14.4% were unintentional. Mortality was highest among self-inflicted injuries (52.4%), followed by assault (12.9%), and unintentional injuries (5.9%). On multivariable analysis, age <45 years, African-American race, and drug use were independently associated with an injury secondary to assault. Age >65 years, White race, psychiatric illness, and alcohol use disorder were independently associated with intentional self-injury. White and American-Indian race were independently associated with unintentional injuries. CONCLUSIONS Assault is the most common cause of home-related firearm injury requiring hospitalization, while intentional self-injury is the most lethal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Napaporn Kongkaewpaisan
- Division of Trauma, Emergency Surgery & Surgical Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Acute Care and Ambulatory Surgery, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Majed El Hechi
- Division of Trauma, Emergency Surgery & Surgical Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mohamad El Moheb
- Division of Trauma, Emergency Surgery & Surgical Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Claudia P Orlas
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gezzer Ortega
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Melissa A Mendoza
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center New Orleans, School of Public Health, Health Policy & Systems Management, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Jonathan Parks
- Division of Trauma, Emergency Surgery & Surgical Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Noelle N Saillant
- Division of Trauma, Emergency Surgery & Surgical Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Haytham M A Kaafarani
- Division of Trauma, Emergency Surgery & Surgical Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - April E Mendoza
- Division of Trauma, Emergency Surgery & Surgical Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Wolf LA, Delao AM, Perhats C, Clark PR, Moon MD, Zavotsky KE, Martinovich Z. Emergency Nurses’ Perceptions of Risk for Firearm Injury and its Effect on Assessment Practices: A Mixed Methods Study. J Emerg Nurs 2019; 45:54-66.e2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jen.2018.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Zeoli AM, Frattaroli S, Roskam K, Herrera AK. Removing Firearms From Those Prohibited From Possession by Domestic Violence Restraining Orders: A Survey and Analysis of State Laws. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2019; 20:114-125. [PMID: 29334003 DOI: 10.1177/1524838017692384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Under federal and many state laws, persons under domestic violence restraining orders (DVROs) are prohibited from possession of firearms. Using multiple sources and a Lexis Nexis search, we developed a list of state laws pertaining to the relinquishment or removal of firearms from persons prohibited from possession by DVROs. After downloading the text of each law, we conducted a legal analysis to enumerate provisions of the laws specifying implementation. We found 49 laws in 29 states and Washington, DC. The laws were conceptualized as instructions to the court, the respondent, and law enforcement. We detail the content of each state's law, including such elements as whether it applies to ex parte DVROs; whether certain criteria must be met, such as previous use of a firearm in domestic violence or lack of an employment exemption, before the law can be applied; and whether the application of the law is mandatory. We also detail instructions to the respondent regarding to whom firearms may be relinquished, whether the respondent must seek permission to transfer the firearm to a third party, and the time by which dispossession must occur. Finally, whether law enforcement bears the responsibility for removing the firearm or whether the law gives the court the authority to order a search and seizure for the firearms is discussed. The purpose of the research is to provide an overview of these state laws that can be used by key stakeholders in legislative, judicial, advocacy, or research roles. Implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- April M Zeoli
- 1 School of Criminal Justice, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Shannon Frattaroli
- 2 Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kelly Roskam
- 3 Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence, Washington, DC, USA
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Butkus R, Doherty R, Bornstein SS, Carney JK, Cooney T, Engel L, Gantzer HE, Henry TL, Lenchus JD, McCandless BM, Quinton J, Southworth M, Valdrighi A, Wallace MA. Reducing Firearm Injuries and Deaths in the United States: A Position Paper From the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med 2018; 169:704-707. [PMID: 30383132 DOI: 10.7326/m18-1530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
For more than 20 years, the American College of Physicians (ACP) has advocated for the need to address firearm-related injuries and deaths in the United States. Yet, firearm violence continues to be a public health crisis that requires the nation's immediate attention. The policy recommendations in this paper build on, strengthen, and expand current ACP policies approved by the Board of Regents in April 2014, based on analysis of approaches that the evidence suggests will be effective in reducing deaths and injuries from firearm-related violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee Butkus
- American College of Physicians, Washington, DC (R.B., R.D.)
| | - Robert Doherty
- American College of Physicians, Washington, DC (R.B., R.D.)
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Sorenson SB, Schut RA. Nonfatal Gun Use in Intimate Partner Violence: A Systematic Review of the Literature. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2018; 19:431-442. [PMID: 27630138 DOI: 10.1177/1524838016668589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Guns figure prominently in the homicide of women by an intimate partner. Less is known, however, about their nonfatal use against an intimate partner. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we searched eight electronic databases and identified 10 original research articles that reported the prevalence of the nonfatal use of firearms against an intimate partner. Results indicate that (1) there is relatively little research on the subject of intimate partners' nonfatal gun use against women. (2) The number of U.S. women alive today who have had an intimate partner use a gun against them is substantial: About 4.5 million have had an intimate partner threaten them with a gun and nearly 1 million have been shot or shot at by an intimate partner. Whether nonfatal gun use is limited to the extreme form of abuse (battering) or whether it occurs in the context of situational violence remains to be seen. Regardless, when it comes to the likely psychological impact, it may be a distinction without a difference; because guns can be lethal quickly and with relatively little effort, displaying or threatening with a gun can create a context known as coercive control, which facilitates chronic and escalating abuse. Implications for policy, practice, and research are discussed, all of which include expanding an implicit focus on homicide to include an intimate partner's nonfatal use of a gun.
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Prickett KC, Martin-Storey A, Crosnoe R. Firearm Ownership in High-Conflict Families: Differences According to State Laws Restricting Firearms to Misdemeanor Crimes of Domestic Violence Offenders. JOURNAL OF FAMILY VIOLENCE 2018; 33:297-313. [PMID: 30420789 PMCID: PMC6226254 DOI: 10.1007/s10896-018-9966-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study examines the association between state laws that prohibit firearm ownership for offenders convicted of misdemeanour crimes of domestic violence (MCDV) and firearm ownership in two-parent families with high-conflict male partners with arrest histories. Mixed effects logistic regression models applied to data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Birth cohort (n = 5,350) determined that living in a state with laws that prohibited firearm ownership for convicted MCDV offenders decreased the likelihood of firearm ownership among families with high-conflict males by 62%. The length of the time limit length on firearm prohibition was correlated with incremental decreases in firearm ownership in such families, with the probability of firearm ownership among families with high-conflict males decreasing from 30% in states with no MCDV laws restricting access from firearms to 12% in states with permanent prohibition on firearm ownership. These findings have significance for public health policy aimed at decreasing intimate-partner homicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate C. Prickett
- Direct correspondence to the first author at The Harris School of Public Policy Studies, The University of Chicago, 1155 E. 60 Street, Chicago IL 60637 ()
| | - Alexa Martin-Storey
- Département de Psychoéducation, Université de Sherbrooke, Pavillon A7, 2500 Boul. De L`Université, Sherbrooke, Quec
| | - Robert Crosnoe
- Department of Sociology and The Population Research Center, The University of Texas at Austin, 305 E. 23 Street, Stop G1800, Austin TX 78712
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Logan TK, Lynch KR. Dangerous Liaisons: Examining the Connection of Stalking and Gun Threats Among Partner Abuse Victims. VIOLENCE AND VICTIMS 2018; 33:399-416. [PMID: 30567855 DOI: 10.1891/0886-6708.v33.i3.399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the scope and nature of how guns are used to threaten (ex)partners particularly during periods of stalking, which often occurs after victims leave their abusers. This study examines survey results from over 500 women from across the United States who contacted the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Specifically, this study (a) describes the prevalence and characteristics of partner abuse victims who were and were not stalked and who were and were not threatened with guns, (b) compares types of gun threats experienced by partner abuse victims who were and were not stalked, (c) examines worries about gun threats for those who were and were not stalked among partner abuse victims not threatened with a gun, and (d) assesses factors associated with advice to obtain a gun for personal safety. This article also provides open-ended comments selected to highlight themes from the quantitative information around participant fears and worries about gun threats and stalking. Findings from this study show one-third of the participants had experienced threats with guns, and one-fifth of those without gun threats worried their (ex)partner would harm them with a gun. Furthermore, there was a significant association between stalking and gun threats, as three-fourth of those who were threatened with a gun reported being stalked. Victims who experienced stalking were also more likely to report their (ex)partner threatened others with guns and were more likely to carry a firearm on their body or in their car, which suggests stalkers who threatened with guns may pose a significant risk to public safety. Implications for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- T K Logan
- University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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Lynch KR, Logan TK. "You Better Say Your Prayers and Get Ready": Guns Within the Context of Partner Abuse. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2018; 33:686-711. [PMID: 26545394 DOI: 10.1177/0886260515613344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The present study used focus groups to collect qualitative data to better understand the complexity of how women with domestic violence experiences feel about gun violence and protections from gun violence within the context of partner violence. Participants consisted of 42 women who were recruited through domestic violence shelters and programs in a single U.S. state. Three main themes were examined in the focus group discussions: (a) guns used within the context of partner abuse, (b) victims using guns as protection from an abuser, and (c) mandated gun restrictions as protection in partner abuse. A total of nine subthemes were organized under the three general themes. Within the first main theme, participants discussed that although abuse occurs with and without guns, guns are uniquely dangerous. In the second main theme, participants expressed concern regarding the dangers of using a gun for self-defense as well as the individual right to own a gun for self-defense. In the third main theme, participants expressed their frustrations that victims are not taken seriously by the justice system and the difficulties of enforcing mandated gun restrictions. The findings have implications for developing protective strategies against gun violence for victims of partner violence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - T K Logan
- 1 University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Sullivan TP, Weiss NH. Is Firearm Threat in Intimate Relationships Associated with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Among Women? VIOLENCE AND GENDER 2017; 4:31-36. [PMID: 28616441 PMCID: PMC5467129 DOI: 10.1089/vio.2016.0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In the context of intimate partner violence (IPV), firearms may be used to threaten, coerce, and intimidate. Yet, what little research exists on firearms among IPV victims has focused almost exclusively on homicide or near homicide. Thus, the deleterious health consequences of firearms more broadly remain unknown. The goals of the current study were (1) to document the prevalence of firearm threat in a community sample of female IPV victims, and (2) to identify the extent to which threat with a firearm, independent of other forms of IPV, is related to women's posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity. Participants were 298 women who had been a victim in a criminal domestic violence case with a male intimate partner (Mage = 36.39 years; 50.0% African American; 51.3% unemployed). Retrospective data on firearm threat, fear of firearm violence, other IPV victimization (i.e., physical, psychological, and sexual), and PTSD symptoms were collected during in-person individual interviews. Approximately one-quarter of the sample (24.2%) experienced threat with a firearm during the course of their relationship, and 12.5% were afraid that their partners would use a firearm against them in the 30 days prior to the study interview. Firearm threat and fear of firearm violence emerged as significant and unique predictors of PTSD symptom severity, controlling for age and physical, psychological, and sexual IPV victimization severity. The findings underscore firearm threat as a key factor for identifying and intervening with criminal justice involved women who experience IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicole H Weiss
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Sullivan TP, Weiss NH, Price C, Pugh N, Hansen NB. Strategies for coping with individual PTSD symptoms: Experiences of African American victims of intimate partner violence. PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA-THEORY RESEARCH PRACTICE AND POLICY 2017; 10:336-344. [PMID: 28481562 DOI: 10.1037/tra0000283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Understanding how populations at particular risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its deleterious outcomes cope with individual PTSD symptoms is critical to developing interventions that promote resilience, support recovery, and ultimately empower traumatized populations. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify specific strategies women use to cope with individual PTSD symptoms among a population at particular risk for experiencing trauma and its negative sequelae-African American victims of intimate partner violence (IPV) who use substances. METHOD This 30-day study included 107 African American women who reported experiencing current IPV and using a substance. During their follow-up interviews, women participated in a structured interview to retrospectively report on the strategies they typically used to cope with various PTSD symptoms during the 30-day period. RESULTS Results of content analysis revealed that women used 19 different strategies to cope with symptoms (e.g., social support, substance use, electronic media, religious or spiritual coping), which varied as a function of the PTSD symptom experienced. Aggregating symptoms to the cluster level obscured the variability in strategies used to cope with individual symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Findings are discussed in the context of the larger literature on coping and PTSD, specifically regarding (a) coping strategies that may be adaptive or maladaptive and (b) directions for future research that attend to experiences of individual PTSD symptoms. (PsycINFO Database Record
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Affiliation(s)
- Tami P Sullivan
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine
| | - Nicole H Weiss
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine
| | - Carolina Price
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine
| | - Nicole Pugh
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine
| | - Nathan B Hansen
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia
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Logan TK, Walker R. Stalking: A Multidimensional Framework for Assessment and Safety Planning. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2017; 18:200-222. [PMID: 26337574 DOI: 10.1177/1524838015603210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite the high prevalence of stalking and the risk of harm it poses to victims, arrest rates, prosecutions, and convictions for stalking continue to be low in the United States. The overall goal of this article is to introduce a multidimensional framework of stalking that adds to the current literature by (1) providing a conceptual framework consistent with legal elements of many stalking statutes to facilitate assessment, communication, documentation, and safety planning for stalking several victims; (2) introducing a more systematic way of assessing course of conduct and the context of fear in stalking situations in order to increase the understanding of cumulative fear for stalking victims; (3) emphasizing the aspects of stalking harm that go beyond violence and that show how harm from stalking accumulates over time including life sabotage; and (4) discussing 12 risk factors derived from the overall multidimensional framework that can be used to describe the big picture of stalking and to facilitate safety planning for victims. Implications for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- T K Logan
- 1 University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Sorenson SB. Guns in Intimate Partner Violence: Comparing Incidents by Type of Weapon. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2017; 26:249-258. [PMID: 28134571 PMCID: PMC5361762 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2016.5832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The goal of this study was to assess the frequency, nature, and outcome of weapon use in intimate partner violence (IPV) and to assess compliance with related gun policies. Methods: Data were drawn from forms police are mandated to complete at the scene of IPV in the fifth largest U.S. city during 2013. Proportions were calculated and odds ratios were adjusted for demographic and contextual characteristics and a Bonferroni correction for multiple statistical tests was applied. Results: Of the 35,413 incidents, 6,573 involved hands, fists, or feet, and 1,866 involved external weapons of which 576 were guns. Most incidents were male-on-female: 63.4% (no weapon), 77.4% (bodily weapon), 50.2% (nongun external weapon), and 79.5% (gun). Guns were used most often to threaten the partner (69.1%). When a gun (vs. bodily or nongun external weapon) was used, IPV victims were less likely to have visible injuries (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.64 and 0.23, respectively)—offenders were less likely to have pushed or shoved, grabbed, punched, or kicked the victim—but (victims) were more likely to be frightened (AOR = 3.13 and 1.49, respectively). Conclusions: Weapon use of any type by an intimate partner is associated with a wide range of violent offender behavior and multiple negative outcomes for victims. The use of a gun has implications that include, but go beyond, physical injury of the victim. Documentation of the enforcement of state law regarding gun removal merits improvement, which has important implications for the evaluation of policies designed to keep guns out of the hands of abusers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan B Sorenson
- School of Social Policy and Practice, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Wintemute GJ, Frattaroli S, Wright MA, Claire BE, Vittes KA, Webster DW. Firearms and the incidence of arrest among respondents to domestic violence restraining orders. Inj Epidemiol 2016; 2:14. [PMID: 27747746 PMCID: PMC5005597 DOI: 10.1186/s40621-015-0047-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons subject to domestic violence restraining orders (DVROs), known as respondents, are generally prohibited from possessing firearms. Efforts to enforce that prohibition have not been evaluated. The study objective was to determine whether associations exist between risk of incident arrest among DVRO respondents and 1) respondents' access to firearms, and 2) law enforcement recovery of firearms from respondents with access to them. METHODS This was an observational study of 2,972 DVRO respondents in San Mateo County, California, 525 of whom were linked to firearms by standardized screening procedures. Enrollment occurred from May 2007 to June 2010 and follow-up through September 2010. Follow-up began when DVROs were served (or when issued if no date of service was available); median duration was 689 days. Principal exposures were access to firearms and, for subjects with access to firearms whose DVROs were served, contact by law enforcement personnel to recover those firearms. Main outcome measures were 1) incidence of arrest; 2) relative risk for arrest, adjusted for age, sex, prior criminal history, and duration of follow-up, assessed using logistic regression. RESULTS Respondents linked to firearms were older than others and were more likely to have a history of prior arrest (49.7 % and 37.3 %, p < 0.0001). The incidence of arrest was 20.6 % for respondents linked to firearms and 21.1 % for others (p = 0.78). In multivariate models, access to firearms was associated with a modest, generally not statistically significant, decrease in risk for incident arrest. Among respondents who were linked to firearms and whose restraining orders were served, no statistically significant association existed between firearm recovery and risk for incident arrest. CONCLUSIONS In this small study of DVRO respondents, findings are inconclusive for an association between access to firearms or firearm recovery and risk of incident arrest. Controlled trials on larger populations are indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garen J Wintemute
- Violence Prevention Research Program, Department of Emergency Medicine School of Medicine, University of California, Davis; 2315 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - Shannon Frattaroli
- Center for Gun Policy and Research, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mona A Wright
- Violence Prevention Research Program, Department of Emergency Medicine School of Medicine, University of California, Davis; 2315 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Barbara E Claire
- Violence Prevention Research Program, Department of Emergency Medicine School of Medicine, University of California, Davis; 2315 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Katherine A Vittes
- Center for Gun Policy and Research, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Daniel W Webster
- Center for Gun Policy and Research, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Fleury-Steiner RE, Miller SL, Carcirieri A. Calling the Shots: How Family Courts Address the Firearms Ban in Protection Orders. Violence Against Women 2016; 23:1140-1151. [DOI: 10.1177/1077801216656828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Access to firearms increases the risk of a batterer killing his partner. Moreover, firearms may be more common in homes where intimate partner abuse has occurred. The Violence Against Women Act of 1994 banned possession of firearms by individuals subject to civil protection orders. Yet little research has focused on how this ban is communicated to survivors and batterers. Drawing on systematic observations of protection order hearings, the current study explores factors related to judicial discussion of the ban in court. Implications for improving protection orders and for increasing battered women’s safety are discussed.
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Abstract
The authors tabulated statewide administrative data for all types of restraining orders. On June 6, 2003, there were 227,941 active restraining orders against adults in California; most were for domestic violence. Rates of restraining orders (i.e., restrained persons) were highest for men, African Americans, and 25- to 34-year-olds. In 72.2% of the orders, a woman was to be protected and a man was to be restrained; in 19.3%, the restrained and protected persons were of the same sex. Although state law prohibits the purchase or possession of a firearm by persons against whom a restraining order is issued, 9.2% of the orders documented no firearm restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan B Sorenson
- School of Public Health, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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39
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Zeoli AM, Malinski R, Turchan B. Risks and Targeted Interventions: Firearms in Intimate Partner Violence. Epidemiol Rev 2016; 38:125-39. [PMID: 26739680 DOI: 10.1093/epirev/mxv007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of firearms in intimate partner violence (IPV) is widely recognized as an important public health threat. However, what we know about the risks of firearm access on IPV outcomes is limited. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review to determine the state of knowledge on 1) the risks of firearm access and use in IPV and 2) the effectiveness of interventions designed specifically to reduce firearm violence in intimate relationships. Only studies published in English in peer-reviewed journals from 1990 through 2014 were included. Results of the review suggest that, when violent intimates have access to firearms, IPV increases in severity and deadliness; however, increases in severity may not be due to firearm use. Additionally, statutes prohibiting persons under domestic violence restraining orders from accessing firearms are associated with reductions in intimate partner homicide, but certain provisions of these laws and their enforcement may impact their effectiveness. Future research should focus on elucidating the link between firearm access and increased IPV severity and on investigating whether and which specific provisions of domestic violence restraining order laws impact the laws' effectiveness. Additionally, more evaluations of initiatives designed to improve the enforcement of domestic violence restraining order firearm prohibitions are needed.
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Tutty LM. “I Didn't Know He Had It in Him to Kill Me”: Nonlethal Firearms Use and Partner Violence Against Canadian Women. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/1936928x.2015.1092906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Sullivan TP, Weiss NH, Flanagan JC, Willie TC, Armeli S, Tennen H. PTSD and Daily Co-Occurrence of Drug and Alcohol Use Among Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence. J Dual Diagn 2016; 12:36-42. [PMID: 26828635 PMCID: PMC4871692 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2016.1146516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE People with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at high risk for substance use, and PTSD is common among women experiencing intimate partner violence. Considering the effects of both PTSD and substance use, such as poorer treatment outcomes and greater health/behavior problems, women experiencing intimate partner violence are a high-risk, under-researched group. METHODS We utilized a micro-longitudinal study design to assess daily drug and alcohol use over 21 days among 41 women experiencing intimate partner violence recruited from the community. RESULTS Participants were about 45 years old (M = 45.1, SD = 8.5) and mostly African American (n = 32, 78%). Co-occurrence of drug and alcohol use was reported on 19.0% of days, while drug use alone occurred on 13.4% of days and alcohol use on 12.1%. Fifteen percent of participants met current PTSD criteria, with a mean symptom severity rating of 15.90 (SD = 10.94, range 0 to 47). Women with PTSD, compared to those without, were nearly 15 times more likely to have days of co-occurrence of drug and alcohol use (p = .037) and nearly 7 times more likely to have days of drug use alone (p = .044). CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that the combination of intimate partner violence and PTSD may make women especially prone to daily co-occurring drug and alcohol use or drug use alone. Further research is needed to explore this association and examine the need for integrated programs to support victims' health, prevent the development of substance use problems, and facilitate recovery from PTSD and substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tami P Sullivan
- a Department of Psychiatry , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , Connecticut , USA
| | - Nicole H Weiss
- a Department of Psychiatry , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , Connecticut , USA
| | - Julianne C Flanagan
- b Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences , Medical University of South Carolina , Charleston , South Carolina , USA
| | - Tiara C Willie
- c Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, School of Public Health, Yale University , New Haven , Connecticut , USA
| | - Stephen Armeli
- d Department of Psychology , Fairleigh Dickenson University , Teaneck , New Jersey , USA
| | - Howard Tennen
- e Department of Community Medicine and Health Care , University of Connecticut Health Center School of Medicine , Farmington , Connecticut , USA
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Zeoli AM, Bonomi A. Pretty in pink? Firearm hazards for domestic violence victims. Womens Health Issues 2014; 25:3-5. [PMID: 25445665 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2014.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Revised: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 09/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- April M Zeoli
- School of Criminal Justice, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan.
| | - Amy Bonomi
- Human Development, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
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Wintemute GJ, Frattaroli S, Claire BE, Vittes KA, Webster DW. Identifying armed respondents to domestic violence restraining orders and recovering their firearms: process evaluation of an initiative in California. Am J Public Health 2014; 104:e113-8. [PMID: 24328660 PMCID: PMC3935681 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2013.301484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We evaluated a law enforcement initiative to screen respondents to domestic violence restraining orders for firearm ownership or possession and recover their firearms. METHODS The initiative was implemented in San Mateo and Butte counties in California from 2007 through 2010. We used descriptive methods to evaluate the screening process and recovery effort in each county, relying on records for individual cases. RESULTS Screening relied on an archive of firearm transactions, court records, and petitioner interviews; no single source was adequate. Screening linked 525 respondents (17.7%) in San Mateo County to firearms; 405 firearms were recovered from 119 (22.7%) of them. In Butte County, 88 (31.1%) respondents were linked to firearms; 260 firearms were recovered from 45 (51.1%) of them. Nonrecovery occurred most often when orders were never served or respondents denied having firearms. There were no reports of serious violence or injury. CONCLUSIONS Recovering firearms from persons subject to domestic violence restraining orders is possible. We have identified design and implementation changes that may improve the screening process and the yield from recovery efforts. Larger implementation trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garen J Wintemute
- Garen J. Wintemute and Barbara E. Claire are with the Violence Prevention Research Program, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento. Shannon Frattaroli, Katherine A. Vittes, and Daniel W. Webster are with the Center for Gun Policy and Research, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
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Interpersonal violence amongst primary health care patients in Lesotho: A qualitative study of the reasons for assault. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2013. [PMCID: PMC4709592 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v5i1.473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Interpersonal violence is a common cause of morbidity and mortality. The incidence of and weapons used in interpersonal violence vary amongst countries and may even vary within regions of a country. Substance abuse, including alcohol, has been linked to interpersonal violence, but other socio-economic factors, cultural and traditional practices may also influence the perpetration of violence. Methods In 2002, a qualitative study was conducted to explore the experiences of physically-assaulted victims of interpersonal violence at a local clinic in Leribe district of the Kingdom of Lesotho. Results Aggravating factors for interpersonal violence included jealousy, unemployment, availability of weapons, substance abuse and poor levels of education. Interpersonal violence was ameliorated by family interventions, reporting to the authorities, seeking protection from assailants and religious assistance. Most interpersonal violence occurred during the night and on weekends. The head and neck regions are the most common anatomical sites of injury. Conclusion Emotional and socio-cultural factors aggravate interpersonal violence in Lesotho, whilst family and religious interventions ameliorate it. Legislation addressing the protection of victims needs to be enacted, and community agencies dealing with interpersonal violence should be established. Studies which assess the requirements and the feasibility of intervention programs are also needed in the kingdom of Lesotho.
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45
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Klein AR. Lethality Assessments and the Law Enforcement Response to Domestic Violence. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1080/15332586.2012.720175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Johnson SD, Cottler LB, Ben Abdallah A, O'Leary C. Risk factors for gun-related behaviors among urban out-of-treatment substance using women. Subst Use Misuse 2012; 47:1200-7. [PMID: 22693947 PMCID: PMC6467467 DOI: 10.3109/10826084.2012.694132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
We examine the prevalence and factors associated with lifetime gun-carrying among 858 urban out-of-treatment substance using women using data collected between 2000 and 2004 in a large Midwestern city. Instruments assessed gun ownership, carrying and access, psychopathology and personal lifestyle risk factors. Analyses were conducted using logistic regression. Illegal activities for income and lifetime violent victimization were the most significant predictors of gun carrying. The implications for practice and future research are discussed along with the study's limitations. The work was supported by grants from the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon D Johnson
- School of Social Work, University of Missouri-St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63121, USA. Sharon_
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Webster DW, Frattaroli S, Vernick JS, O'Sullivan C, Roehl J, Campbell JC. Women with protective orders report failure to remove firearms from their abusive partners: results from an exploratory study. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2012; 19:93-8. [PMID: 20088664 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2007.0530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The purpose of this study was to describe the perceptions of women who sought court protection orders for domestic violence (PODV) about actions to implement laws intended to disarm their abusers. METHODS We identified female victims of intimate partner violence (IPV) in New York and Los Angeles primarily through family courts and records of police calls for domestic violence. Of these, 782 were surveyed and asked about their experiences seeking PODV from courts, judges ordering the removal of firearms from defendants, and if firearms were actually surrendered or confiscated. RESULTS Of the 542 victims who had obtained a PODV and knew whether their abuser owned a firearm, 82 (15%) reported that their abuser owned a firearm. Although state law either allowed or mandated judges issuing PODVs to require abusers to surrender their firearms, 21 victims (26%) reported that judges used this authority. Ten victims (12% of victims with armed abusers) reported that their abuser had either surrendered all of his firearms or had the firearms seized. When victims reported that the judge ordered their abuser to surrender his firearms, victims were more likely to report that all firearms were either surrendered by the abuser or confiscated by law enforcement. CONCLUSIONS Based on the perceptions of the IPV victims in this study, laws designed to disarm domestic violence offenders were either poorly implemented or failed to inform victims when their abuser's firearms were surrendered or confiscated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel W Webster
- Center for Gun Policy and Research, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Abstract
This article summarizes the scientific literature on the health risks and benefits of having a gun in the home for the gun owner and his/her family. For most contemporary Americans, scientific studies indicate that the health risk of a gun in the home is greater than the benefit. The evidence is overwhelming for the fact that a gun in the home is a risk factor for completed suicide and that gun accidents are most likely to occur in homes with guns. There is compelling evidence that a gun in the home is a risk factor for intimidation and for killing women in their homes. On the benefit side, there are fewer studies, and there is no credible evidence of a deterrent effect of firearms or that a gun in the home reduces the likelihood or severity of injury during an altercation or break-in. Thus, groups such as the American Academy of Pediatrics urge parents not to have guns in the home.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Hemenway
- Harvard Injury Control Research Center, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
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49
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Abstract
Health care professionals have increasingly recognized that intimate partner violence (IPV) is a highly prevalent public health problem with devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities. However, there are no obvious clinical characteristics of IPV. Interventions may prevent future IPV-related injuries, but they cannot be initiated until the diagnosis is made. Because of the frequency of IPV-related orofacial injuries, oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) may be the first and only health care providers to see these patients. Therefore, OMSs are in a pivotal position to diagnosis IPV-related injuries and expedite referral for interventional therapy. This article presents data that support the use of orofacial injuries as a prime predictor variable in identifying victims of IPV and provides: (1) an overview of the epidemiology of IPV-related orofacial injuries; (2) a discussion of the role of head, neck, and facial injuries as markers of IPV, and their role as a diagnostic tool to facilitate the early diagnosis and referral for management of IPV; (3) a list of the advantages and limitations of using orofacial injuries as indicators of IPV; and (4) future directions to improve efforts to educate OMSs in identifying patients who are at high risk for an IPV-related injury.
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Vittes KA, Sorenson SB. Keeping guns out of the hands of abusers: handgun purchases and restraining orders. Am J Public Health 2008; 98:828-31. [PMID: 18381985 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2007.124115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Persons under certain domestic violence restraining orders are prohibited by federal law from purchasing and possessing a firearm. We used administrative data from California to link 794426 restraining orders with 1388724 handgun purchase applications. We found that restrained persons were not a less law-abiding group in general, but they appeared to be repeatedly or serially abusive to intimate partners, and their handgun purchase rates were highest after their restraining orders expired.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A Vittes
- School of Social Policy and Practice, University of Pennsylvania, 3815 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6179, USA
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