Understanding the Mental Health Impact of Intimate Partner Violence Among Women in Anambra State: A Mixed-Methods Study

Intimate partner violence (IPV) inflicts severe and multidimensional mental health consequences on affected women, yet culturally sensitive mixed-methods evidence from South East Nigeria is limited. This study examines the mental health impact of IPV among women in Anambra State using a mixed-methods convergent design. Quantitatively, 220 women aged 18 to 50 attending primary health facilities in Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi will be screened using the Revised Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS2) for IPV exposure, and the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), PHQ-9, and GAD-7 will assess psychiatric outcomes. Qualitatively, 20 purposively selected women with confirmed IPV exposure will participate in in-depth interviews exploring psychological responses, cultural pressure to endure violence, and barriers to disclosure. Quantitative data will be analyzed using structural equation modeling to test a pathway model from IPV to psychiatric symptoms. Thematic analysis will contextualize statistical findings. Findings are expected to reveal high rates of PTSD and depression among IPV-exposed women, with cultural norms of marital submission serving as significant barriers to help-seeking. Results will guide IPV-responsive mental health services in Anambra State and inform gender-based violence legislation in South East Nigeria. Keywords: intimate partner violence, mental health, women, Anambra State, mixed-methods