Invisible Tethers: The Role of Social Networks in Intimate Partner Violence and Mental Health Among Adult Women

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is associated with high rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, and women experiencing IPV often face social isolation that may exacerbate mental health concerns. This study examines the relationship among IPV, social networks, and mental health outcomes in women. It aims to understand how social network characteristics relate to the presence of PTSD and depression among women with and without experiences of IPV.

We collected data on IPV experiences, participants' social networks, and PTSD and depression symptomatology from women aged 18-35 in Connecticut who reported risk indicators for pre-exposure prophylaxis candidacy (N = 204). Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between IPV and mental health, while adjusting for demographic factors and covariates. We also examined whether social network characteristics moderated this relationship.

Women experiencing IPV had fewer men in their networks, more network members who had experienced IPV, and more network members with violence-acceptable attitudes compared with women without IPV experiences. IPV experience was also significantly associated with higher PTSD symptomatology. IPV moderated two associations between network characteristics and depression: among women experiencing IPV, greater network closeness was associated with less severe depression symptoms, whereas among women without IPV experience, a higher percentage of men in the network was associated with less severe depression symptoms.

There are significant differences in social network characteristics among women with and without IPV experiences. Trauma-informed interventions and services should acknowledge how network members might influence depression when engaging with women experiencing IPV.