Risk Factors Associated with Intimate Partner Violence against Chinese Women: A Systematic Review

The prevalence of intimate partner violence against women in China remains high. Understanding associated risk factors will help inform prevention. The purpose of this systematic review was to identify associated risk factors of intimate partner violence against women in mainland China.

Nine English and Chinese databases were searched from 1 August 2008-2 August 2022. Reference lists of relevant studies supplemented the initial results. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence was used to assess article quality. Study results were combined in a narrative synthesis.

Nineteen eligible studies were identified. Examples of key intimate partner violence risk factors included: partner's low education or income, unhealthy habits (gambling), women's marital status, poor health or education, women's or partner's childhood abuse or witnessing thereof at home, or multiple children and husband dominance.

Despite the significant changes in Chinese policies and the new law, IPV continues, and this review has highlighted vulnerable women who need identification and protection. Further study is needed of individual (e.g., psychological well-being), relationship/family, and society/cultural variables.