Comorbidity between abuse of an adult and DSM-III-R mental disorders: Evidence from an epidemiological study

Objective: The purpose of this study was to report the prevalence, risk, and implications of comorbidity between partner violence and psychiatric disorders. Method: Data were obtained from a representative birth cohort of 941 young adults through use of the Conflict Tactics Scales and Diagnostic Interview Schedule. Results: Half of those involved in partner violence had a psychiatric disorder; one-third of those with a psychiatric disorder were involved in partner violence. Individuals involved in severe partner violence had elevated rates of a wide spectrum of disorders. Conclusions: The findings support the importance of mental health clinicians screening for partner violence and treating victims and perpetrators before injury occurs.