The impact of psychological abuse on somatic symptoms: A study of older persons aged 60-84 years

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2013

Authors

Soares, JJF (Author) Other; Viitasara, E (Author) Other; Macassa, G (Author) Other; Melchiorre, MG (Author) Other; Stankunas, M (Author) Other; Lindert, J (Author) Other; Barros H (Author) FMUP; Ioannidi Kapolou, E (Author) Other; Torres Gonzalez, F (Author) Other

Journal

The Journal is awaiting validation by the Administrative Services.

Title: Journal of Adult Protection

Vol. 16

Pages: 213-231

ISSN: 1466-8203

Indexing

Scopus - 4 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00A-BH0

DOI: 10.1108/jap-08-2013-0034

Abstract (EN): Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine differences in the experience of somatic symptoms by domain (exhaustion, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, heart distress) between psychologically abused and non-abused older persons, and to scrutinize associations between abuse and somatic symptoms while considering other factors (e.g. social support). Design/methodology/approach - The design was cross-sectional. The participants were 4,467 women/men aged 60-84 years living in seven European cities. The data were analysed using bivariate/multivariate methods. Findings: Psychologically abused participants scored higher on all somatic symptom domains than non-abused, and thus were more affected by the symptoms. The regressions confirmed a positive association between psychological abuse and most somatic symptom domains, but other factors (e.g. depression, anxiety) were more salient. Demographics/socio-economics were positively (e.g. marriage/ cohabitation) or negatively (e.g. education) associated with somatic symptoms depending on the domain. Social support and family structure "protected" the experience of somatic symptoms. Research limitations/implications: The research focused on psychological abuse. It did not incorporate other abuse types calling for further research on the effects of other abuse types on somatic symptoms. Nevertheless, the findings indicate that psychological abuse is linked to somatic symptoms, but the role of other factors (e.g. depression, anxiety, social support) is also important. Practical implications: Improvements in the older person's situation regarding somatic symptoms need to consider psychological abuse, co-morbidities, social support and living conditions. Originality/value - The paper reports data from the ABUEL Survey, which collected population-based data on elder abuse. © Emerald Group Publishing Limited, ISSN 1466-8203.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific