Coping variables that mediate the relation between intimate partner violence and mental health outcomes among low-income, African American women.

Coping variables that mediate the relation between intimate partner violence (IPV) and mental health outcomes among African American women were investigated. The study sample included 143 economically disadvantaged African American women ranging in age from 21 to 64 years old who were receiving services at an urban public health system. Sixty-five had experienced IPV within the past year and 78 had never experienced IPV. Results indicated that (a) the IPV status-depressive symptoms link was mediated by multiple ways of coping, spiritual well-being, and social support; (b) the IPV status-anxiety symptoms link was mediated by multiple ways of coping, social support, and ability to access resources; and (c) the IPV status-parenting stress link was mediated by multiple ways of coping, spiritual well-being, and social support. Implications of these findings for clinical practice with abused women are discussed. (c) 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.