Exploring Israeli Arab Muslim Women's Intention to Cooperate During Screening for Intimate Partner Violence in...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Women's Health

Background:

• Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant public health issue disproportionately affecting women.
• Screening for IPV in healthcare settings is crucial for early identification and intervention.
• Cultural factors can influence women's willingness to disclose and cooperate with IPV screening.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine factors influencing Israeli Arab Muslim women's cooperation with intimate partner violence (IPV) screening in healthcare settings.
• To assess the role of Theory of Reasoned Action components, self-efficacy, and IPV screening knowledge in cooperation intentions.
• To identify barriers and facilitators for IPV screening among this population.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 200 Israeli Arab Muslim women.
• The survey assessed components of the Theory of Reasoned Action, including subjective norms and normative beliefs.
• Self-efficacy and knowledge regarding IPV screening were also evaluated.

Main Results:

• A high percentage of women (71% in community, 78% in hospital settings) were not asked about IPV, despite expressing willingness to cooperate.
• Subjective norms and normative beliefs were significant predictors of cooperation intentions.
• Self-efficacy was not found to correlate with intention to cooperate with IPV screening.

Conclusions:

• Culturally sensitive approaches are essential for effective IPV screening among Israeli Arab Muslim women.
• Healthcare providers should be trained to routinely screen for IPV, respecting cultural nuances.
• Community-based interventions are needed to support women experiencing IPV and promote cooperation with screening.