Domestic violence during quarantine: A cross-sectional study on perceived prevalence and their socio-educational factors among Latin Americans

Introduction: Domestic violence is a persistent global public health issue. During the COVID-19 quarantine, increased family confinement often intensified conflicts, contributing to mental health challenges. Aim: To determine the perceived prevalence of domestic violence during quarantine among Latin Americans; and to investigate the socio-educational factors associated with their perception on domestic violence during quarantine. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted, utilizing a survey with four questions to assess the perception of domestic violence (Cronbach's Alpha: 0.88) among 8145 participants from Latin America. Multivariate analysis was used to explore the factors associated. Results: Among the participants, only 11 % (3 % strongly agreed and 8 % agreed), and similarly reported increase in domestic violence among their neighbors, friends, and family members during the quarantine. The analysis revealed that men (RPa: 1.08; 95 % CI: 1.04–1.13; p < 0.001) and individuals with post-traumatic stress (RPa: 1.30; 95 % CI: 1.24–1.36; p < 0.001) had a higher perception of domestic violence. Discussion: The findings highlight important factors that influenced the perception of domestic violence, including gender, education level, and post-traumatic stress. Conclusion: A higher perception of domestic violence was observed among men and individuals with post-traumatic stress, whereas individuals with graduate education and those who were married or divorced reported lower perceptions. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions and support systems; mental, occupational and social, to address the impact of domestic violence, particularly during crisis situations, like the pandemic.