The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #66950

E. Anne Lown, DrPH, Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, 2000 Hearst Street, Suite 300, Berkeley, CA 94709, (510) 642-5208, alown@arg.org, James Wiley, PhD, San Francisco State University, 1600 Hollaway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132-4025, and Laura Schmidt, PhD, Public Health Institute, Alcohol Research Group, 2000 Hearst Ave., Suite 300, Berkeley, CA 94079.

Background: Welfare reform laws emphasize economic independence rather than welfare reliance. Domestic violence, rape and physical assault are commonly reported in welfare populations. Victimization creates barriers to economic independence and self-sufficiency at a time when women are under increased pressure to move from welfare to work. This paper examines the prevalence of several types of interpersonal violence and associated factors among women applying for welfare benefits in a northern California county. Methods: Welfare applicants (N=1235 women) for Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) and General Assistance (GA) were surveyed in 2002. Women were asked about past year interpersonal violent victimization, demographic, work and health factors. Results: Partner violence was reported by 25% of women, rape was reported by almost 7% and any violence was reported by 29%. Women who report any violence are significantly more likely to report; being homeless in the past year, being divorced or separated, less family support, living in disrupted neighborhoods, experiencing other traumatic events, applying for GA, problem drinking, heavy episodic drinking, alcohol dependence, any drug use, poorer self assessed health and more physical and mental health disability days. Conclusions: Interpersonal violence is a significant problem among women applying for welfare. The many serious factors associated with violent victimization may compound difficulties for women trying to move into the workplace. It is recommended that welfare applicants be screened for victimization and programs be designed to meet the multiple and complex needs of these women ensuring their safety and effective participation in programs required by welfare.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify multiple types of interpersonal violence reported by women welfare applicants and describe associated factors.

Keywords: Violence, Welfare

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.