A Cross-Sectional Network Analysis of Intimate Partner Violence and Suicidal Ideation Among Arab Women

IntroductionThe current study aimed to evaluate the relationship between intimate partner violence (IPV) and suicidal ideation among women using a network analysis approach.MethodSecondary data including 440 women (mean age +/- SD = 32.78 +/- 8.09) who experienced IPV in the last 6 months were used. The Revised Composite Abuse Scale-Short Form, Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale and Revised Scale of Economic Abuse were used to assess IPV and suicidal ideation. Network analysis, centrality measures and bridge centrality were applied to understand the interplay between IPV and suicide risk factors.ResultsThe strongest association in the network analysis was found between 'Wish to be Dead' (S.1) and 'Non-Specific Active Suicidal Thoughts' (S.2) with a weight of 0.523, indicating a substantial correlation between general suicidal thoughts and particular desires to die. IPV symptoms, particularly economic exploitation and psychological abuse, showed strong links to suicidal ideation. 'Active Suicidal Ideation with Specific Plan and Intent' (S.5) was significantly related to 'Make you take out a loan or buy something on credit when you didn't want to' (EA.11) with a weight of 0.276. Additionally, centrality analysis showed that 'Wish to be Dead' (S.1) was the most central node in the network of suicidal ideation, with the highest centrality score (betweenness = 2.625).ConclusionThese findings suggest that IPV, mainly psychological abuse, plays a pivotal role in suicidal ideation among women. Mental health interventions should focus on addressing IPV-related psychological abuse. Suicide prevention efforts must integrate IPV screening into clinical practice.