Criminal psychology perspectives on sexual and gender-based violence and their impact on reproductive health outcomes in China

This study explores sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) through a criminal psychology lens, focusing on its effects on reproductive health outcomes among 342 women in urban and semi-urban areas of China. Employing a quantitative cross-sectional approach and structural equation modeling, it examines the direct, indirect, and moderating relationships between SGBV, psychological trauma, cognitive acceptance of violence, and reproductive health outcomes. The findings reveal a significant association between SGBV and negative reproductive health consequences, such as unintended pregnancies, delayed prenatal care, and repeated induced abortions. Psychological trauma emerges as a partial mediator, highlighting emotional distress as a critical factor connecting exposure to violence with reproductive vulnerabilities. Additionally, cognitive acceptance of violence moderates the relationship between exposure to violence and trauma, with higher acceptance amplifying the effects of trauma. The model accounts for a substantial portion of the variance in both trauma and health outcomes. These results underline the importance of integrating criminal psychological frameworks into reproductive health initiatives and violence prevention strategies. Tackling both trauma and cultural norms surrounding violence, alongside legal and medical interventions, is essential to mitigate the reproductive health risks associated with SGBV among women in China.