Depression in battered women.

Sex differences in rates of depression and of battering by intimate partners are substantial: 3:1 and 10:1, respectively. The relationship between battering and depression has been documented for more than two decades, but has rarely been noted in the depression literature. This paper presents a brief summary of the major etiological theories of depression with a discussion of the evidence that links these theories with research on battered women. It seems clear that battering can be an important component of depression in battered women. Understanding the mechanisms involved in the relationship between depression and battering can result in a better approach to the diagnosis and treatment of depression in battered women. This discussion has particular ramifications for the primary health care system as well as the mental health care system.