Increased risk of child maltreatment and mental health problems among adolescents with restrictions regarding choice of future partner: Results from a Swedish school-based survey
Date
2021
Journal Title
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Volume Title
Publisher
Scandinavian Journal of Public Health
Abstract
Honour-related violence and oppression is a violation of human rights and a public health problem. Oppression
can be manifested by not being allowed to choose future partners and can increase the risk of abuse and mental health
problems. Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate associations between restrictions regarding choice of future partner
(RCP), child maltreatment and mental health problems among adolescents in Sweden. Methods: The study was based on
cross-sectional data, including a nationally representative sample of 4741 pupils from grade nine in primary school and second
year in high school. Pearson’s chi-square tests and binary logistical regression analyses adjusting for socio-demographic
factors were conducted. Results: RCP was significantly associated to child maltreatment, including poly-victimisation, and
mental health problems. In the adjusted analysis, an increased risk for all types of maltreatment, poly-victimisation (adjusted
odds ratio (aOR) 10.2, confidence interval (CI) 5.6–18.4), self-harm (aOR 1.9, CI 1.1–3.2) and suicide attempt (aOR 2.4,
CI 1.3–4.7) were shown in adolescents exposed to RCP compared to non-exposed. Conclusions: There is an increased
risk of child maltreatment including poly-victimisation and mental health problems among adolescents exposed
to RCP compared to non-exposed. The study emphasizes the matter as a public health problem requiring
immediate preventive measures to ensure the rights of children and adolescents.
Description
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Article
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Keywords
Honour-related violence and oppression, child maltreatment, research, Sweden, International Resources, mental health, adolescents, poly-victimization
Citation
Bengtsson, D., Landberg, Å., & Jernbro, C. (2021). Increased risk of child maltreatment and mental health problems among adolescents with restrictions regarding choice of future partner: Results from a Swedish school-based survey. Scandinavian Journal of Public Health, 14034948211053138.