An Intersectional Analysis of Intimate Partner Violence in Canada
Abstract
Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a recognized public health issue that can lead to poor mental and physical health outcomes. It is critical to take an intersectional approach to understanding the ways that social and interpersonal power impact IPV.
Methods: Random Forest was used to aid in social group selection when forming intersections. Multilevel analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy (MAIHDA) was used to estimate the prevalence of IPV across intersections. Descriptive statistics were used to explore the context in which IPV occurred.
Results: The prevalence of IPV was greatest for cisgender women, transgender, and non-binary individuals, aged 15-24, with moderate to severe disabilities. Cisgender women, transgender, and non-binary individuals, aged 45+, with disabilities were more likely to report severe psychological consequences of the violence.
Conclusions: Public health efforts should seek to understand and address the complex structural inequities experienced by intersections at highest IPV risk.