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Published on: March 8, 2018
Polyvictimization and Psychological Outcomes Among North Korean Refugee Women
Boyoung Nam1, Yujin Lee2, Charlotte Bright3
1Department of Social Welfare, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.
North Korean refugee women face high rates of gender-based violence (GBV) and intimate partner violence (IPV). Exposure to GBV significantly increases risks for depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Psychology
Background:
- North Korean refugee women experience significant risks during migration.
- Limited research exists on the mental health impacts of violence on this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine polyvictimization (exposure to GBV and IPV) among North Korean refugee women.
- To explore the association between polyvictimization and psychological symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Analyzed data from 212 North Korean refugee women using a snowball sample.
- Operationalized polyvictimization into four categories: no victimization, only GBV, only IPV, and both GBV and IPV.
- Utilized multivariate analyses to assess associations with depression, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and alcohol use disorder.
Main Results:
- 46.2% experienced GBV, and 30.9% experienced IPV; 25% experienced both.
- GBV was the most significant factor impacting mental health.
- Women experiencing only GBV or both GBV and IPV showed higher depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation severity.
- The risk of suicide attempt was significantly elevated for those with only GBV or both GBV and IPV.
Conclusions:
- Gender-based violence is a critical determinant of adverse mental health outcomes for North Korean refugee women.
- Interventions and further research are crucial to address the complex needs of this vulnerable group.
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