Mistreatment and Self-Reported Emotional Symptoms: Results From the National Elder Mistreatment Study

• NCJ Number: 241042
• Journal: Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect Volume: 24 Issue: 3 Dated: July-September 2012 Pages: 216-230
• Author(s): Josh M. Cisler, M.A.; Angela M. Begle, Ph.D.; Ananda B. Amstadter, Ph.D.; Ron Acierno, Ph.D.
• Date Published: July 2012
• Length: 15 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2007-WG-BX-0009; R21AG030667; MH083469
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute of Justice (NIJ); National Institute on Aging; National Institute of Mental Health
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study investigated whether a recent history of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse is associated with self-reported emotional symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression) among a representative sample of older adults.

Abstract

Many community-residing older adults in the United States report past year mistreatment; however, little is known about mental health correlates of abuse. This study investigated whether a recent history of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse is associated with self-reported emotional symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression) among a representative sample of older adults. Results demonstrated that each abuse type increased likelihood of reporting emotional symptoms; when other known correlates were controlled, only emotional abuse remained a significant predictor. Additional study of mistreatment-related correlates of depression and anxiety is needed, with a focus on the often overlooked category of emotional mistreatment. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.