Associations Between Intimate Partner Violence and Increased Economic Insecurity Among Women and Transgender Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Objective: This study investigated the relationship between intimate partner violence (IPV) experienced both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and increased economic insecurity in food, phone/internet services, health care, and housing. We also assessed sociodemographic differences associated with increased economic insecurity among women and transgender/nonbinary adults since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: An online, cross-sectional survey was administered to a general population sample of women and transgender individuals in one Midwestern state (N = 1,169). Results: IPV victimization during stay-at-home orders was associated with approximately three times higher odds of housing insecurity (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.06, p < .001) and increased health care insecurity (AOR = 2.95, p < .001) than those without victimization during stay-at-home orders, even after adjusting for IPV immediately prior to the pandemic. Multiracial, pregnant, and sexual minority (defined as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, or other sexual orientation [LGBQ+]) women and transgender/nonbinary individuals were at elevated risk for specific forms of increased insecurity. Conclusions: Findings highlight the need for continued COVID-19 legislation that enhances housing and rental support for populations most in need of safe and stable housing, particularly survivors of IPV. Reduced access to health care limits IPV opportunities for intervention and treatment. Expanding accessible and affordable health care options during the COVID-19 pandemic can enhance the safety and well-being of survivors and increase opportunities for providers to screen for IPV.