The Impact of Differential Patterns of Physical Violence and Stalking on Mental Health and Help-Seeking Among Women With Protective Orders

Abstract

This study examined the severity of partner violence on women’s mental health and help-seeking as well as perceptions of safety and protective-order effectiveness. Three groups based on partner violence victimization in the past year were compared: (a) women who reported experiencing moderate physical violence but no history of severe violence or stalking ( n = 102), (b) women who experienced severe violence but no history of stalking ( n = 142), and (c) women who experienced severe violence and stalking ( n = 145). Results suggest that stalking has a unique impact on victims’ mental health and perceived safety, and that protections afforded by protective orders may not be adequate for women experiencing stalking.