Physical Intimate Partner Violence, Childhood Physical Abuse and Mental Health of U.S. Caribbean Women: The Interrelationship of Social, Contextual, and Migratory Influences

The literature has shown an increased risk for mental health conditions among victims of domestic violence. Few studies have examined the relationship between mental health disorders and domestic violence among Caribbean women, and how the association might be influenced by migratory and contextual factors. This study addresses the mental well-being of U.S. Caribbean Black women victims of domestic violence, and the relationships between acculturation, discrimination, and demographic influences. An analysis of data from the 2001–2003 National Survey of American Life (NSAL) re-interview, the first and most complete study on U.S. Caribbean Blacks, was conducted. Bivariate analysis revealed an association between acts of physical domestic violence and mental health conditions, with generally higher risk among women who reported both severe physical intimate partner violence and childhood physical abuse. Multivariate logistic regression indicates an association between specific mental disorders and acts of domestic violence. Acculturation, length of residence in the United States, age, education, poverty, and country of origin were also associated with mental health. The study highlights future directions for exploration including additional investigation of the influence of acculturation on the physical health of victims of domestic violence

Prevalence and correlates of physical health conditions in Jamaica and Guyana

The increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases remains an important source of concern in the Caribbean and Latin American regions. This study examines rates and the associated socio- demographic correlates of physical health indicators in Jamaica and Guyana. Area probability cross- sectional data were collected on 1,218 Jamaicans and 2,068 Guyanese participants in 2005. Physician- diagnosed hypertension, diabetes mellitus, arthritis, and self-rated oral and general physical health were assessed using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and hierarchical logistic regression analytic procedures. Jamaicans generally reported poorer physical health, including diabetes mellitus, arthritis, and overall perceived oral and physical health compared to Guyanese; Guyanese reported higher rates of hypertension. Generally, lower social and economic standing was associated with poorer health conditions but made different contributions across countries. The study highlights the need for greater awareness and access to health care services for individuals who are especially vulnerable to poorer health. The results of this study suggest the need for additional studies on factors associated with physical health conditions, including a better understanding of the role of race/ethnicity in the Caribbean