Increased risk of child maltreatment and mental health problems among adolescents with restrictions regarding choice of future partner: Results from a Swedish school-based survey

Abstract

Background: Honour-related violence and oppression is a violation of human rights and a public health problem. Oppression can be manifested by not being allowed to choose future partners and can increase the risk of abuse and mental health problems. Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate associations between restrictions regarding choice of future partner (RCP), child maltreatment and mental health problems among adolescents in Sweden. Methods: The study was based on cross-sectional data, including a nationally representative sample of 4741 pupils from grade nine in primary school and second year in high school. Pearson’s chi-square tests and binary logistical regression analyses adjusting for socio-demographic factors were conducted. Results: RCP was significantly associated to child maltreatment, including poly-victimisation, and mental health problems. In the adjusted analysis, an increased risk for all types of maltreatment, poly-victimisation (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 10.2, confidence interval (CI) 5.6–18.4), self-harm (aOR 1.9, CI 1.1–3.2) and suicide attempt (aOR 2.4, CI 1.3–4.7) were shown in adolescents exposed to RCP compared to non-exposed. Conclusions: There is an increased risk of child maltreatment including poly-victimisation and mental health problems among adolescents exposed to RCP compared to non-exposed. The study emphasizes the matter as a public health problem requiring immediate preventive measures to ensure the rights of children and adolescents.

Reading the signs in health visits—Perspectives of adolescents with migration experiences on encounters with school nurses

“…Relationships with others might be a sensitive topic to address with adolescents, especially if they live in families or communities guided by norms regarding honour control relationships and sexuality. Still, such norms affect adolescents' health as research has shown that restrictions regarding the adolescents' possibilities of choosing a future partner are related to mental health problems (Bengtsson et al., 2021 ). That the school nurses should ask such questions about family, relationships, and other topics related to health was expected by the adolescents, yet they also highlighted that school nurses should not make assumptions about them, or their health based on any preconceived ideas or prejudice.…”