Browsing by Author "Ferreira, Luzette"

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    Intimate partner violence and its association with substance use disorder : a qualitative study
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2023-12) Ferreira, Luzette; Roos, Annerine; Lochner, Christine; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dept. of Psychiatry.
    ENGLISH SUMMARY: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a serious public health and social problem affecting a large proportion of women in both developed and developing countries. South Africa has one of the highest prevalence rates of IPV compared to other countries, with significant negative effects on the well-being and mental health of the victims. IPV has been significantly associated with substance use disorder (SUD) and victims of IPV are significantly more prone to abuse multiple substances. There is a lack of rich narrative information within a South African context with regards to women’s experiences of IPV and SUD. My aim was to qualitatively investigate the experiences and challenges of women present with both SUD and IPV. Twelve participants with ages ranging between 18 and 43, in an inpatient unit offering rehabilitation services, were interviewed using a semi-structured interview and several questionnaires to assess type, severity and history of IPV and SUD; to identify risk factors such as mental health symptoms and childhood abuse. After transcription of audiotaped interviews, thematic analysis was used to derive from participants’ narratives three primary themes: i) Substance abuse and relationship development, ii) The relationship became abusive, and iii) Becoming sober and leaving the relationship. Under each primary theme, four subthemes were identified. A history of abuse and mental health problems contributed to increased vulnerability in these participants. Mental health consequences of IPV were mostly undiagnosed and participants identified symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma. IPV often went untreated as the primary treatment was for SUD. These findings describe the complexity of IPV and SUD in women within treatment centres as well as the escalation and severity of these two problems when they occur simultaneously. This study adds to the limited literature on South African women’s daily experiences of living with both IPV and SUD. Participants’ narratives provide valuable information that provide a foundation for future investigations among larger populations of women with IPV and SUD; to determine their unique experiences, difficulties and needs for targeted treatment.