The impact of intimate partner violence on mental health amongst South Asians: an exploration of individual, societal and intergenerational factors

This project will aim to draw insight into contributory factors and mechanisms which may help explain the impact experiences of intimate partner violence (IPV) can have on mental health amongst the South Asian Community. According to the 2011 Census, 18.5% of the population in London report that they have Asian heritage, with 49.7% from the Bangladeshi community, 38.4% from the Indian community, and 19.9% from the Pakistani community.

By focusing on the South Asian population this project will begin to identify areas for further exploration to assist in reducing the development of poor mental health outcomes. In addition to the impact on mental health, this project will focus on the role of individual and societal factors, and intergenerational experiences of IPV, to identify mechanisms of change to help break the cycle of violence.

Findings will inform understanding to improve the trajectory of negative outcomes and the support that is provided to survivors of IPV. This in turn will begin to reduce disparities and decrease the reliance on mental healthcare. Through the collaborative partnership with Survivors voices, this project will engage directly with the community and involve experts by experience throughout the project.

Queen Mary University of London, UCL, Kingston University, Survivors Voices