Gender Based Violence, Social Support, and Impaired Mental Health in Afghan Refugee Women Residing in Pakistan

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17515714

Abstract

This study examines the association between Gender-Based Violence (GBV), particularly Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), social support, and mental health outcomes among Afghan refugee women. Employing a correlational research design, data were collected through purposive sampling from 142 married Afghan refugee women aged 18 to 59 residing in Dera Ismail Khan. Participants completed a self-constructed demographic questionnaire along with standardized measures assessing exposure to violence and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Statistical analyses, including reliability testing, correlation, hierarchical regression, and moderation analysis, were conducted to evaluate the relationships among variables. Findings revealed that psychological, physical, and sexual violence were significantly associated with elevated levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Conversely, social support from family, friends, and significant others played a buffering role, mitigating the adverse effects of violence on mental health. Among the violence types, physical violence emerged as the strongest predictor of psychological distress. The study underscores the critical need for culturally sensitive mental health interventions and preventive strategies to address violence against Afghan refugee women.

Keywords: Gender-Based Violence, Social Support, Stress, Depression, Anxiety, Afghan Refugees