Violence, social support and mental health: A dual factor model approach

Abstract

Background: Although the impact of violence on mental health has been extensively studied, it has mainly focused on psychopathology and has overlooked well-being. Social support is a protective factor, but further evidence is lacking regarding its role when considering both psychopathology and well-being. Aims: This study employed a cross-sectional retrospective design to explore the role of victimization and social support in mental health by applying a dual mental health approach. Methods: A total of 581 adults (42.5% female,18–67 years; M = 34.55, SD = 11.68) completed self-report measures through an online survey. Results: The results support the dual-factor model and significant differences were observed between the mental health groups in terms of participants’ sex, victimization and social support. Specifically, the Troubled group reported the highest victimization scores and the worst scores on social support. Additionally, the Positive Mental Health group reported fewer victimization than the Troubled group, as well as greater social support from all sources than the Vulnerable group. Conclusions: These results underpin the need for more comprehensive analysis of mental health, going beyond the classic perspective of the absence of symptoms as an indication of good health. The identification of different profiles might enable the design of targeted interventions addressing the victims’ needs.