The physical and mental health consequences of bias victimization among people with disabilities

Aim: Research on the health consequences of violent victimization of people with disabilities is lacking. This study aims to identify the factors that are associated with physical and mental health impacts of anti-disability bias victimization. Methods: The study drew on a unique sample of 331 self-identified people with disabilities, all over the age of 15, residing in Czechia. From this sample, 47 questionnaires were excluded. The respondents were asked about the most serious incident of anti-disability bias victimization in the last five years. A series of bivariate binary logistic regressions were performed - with the consequences of this incident as outcomes (mental health and physical health). Results: 90 respondents (32%) reported experiencing the most serious incident of bias victimization in the last five years. 60% of victims reported anxiety and sadness, and 28% deterioration in physical health. The results suggest that victims experience physical and mental health consequences unequally. Age, perceived disability in specific areas, visibility of disability, presence of multiple disabilities, and number of offenders are associated with the experience of physical health deterioration. Education, perceived disability in specific areas, and visibility of disability are associated with the experience of mental health impacts. Conclusion: Certain groups of people with disabilities who experience victimization report poorer physical and mental health outcomes. This differential experience should be considered in immediate responses and prevention programs.