Domestic violence expected to escalate amid Alberta downturn

As Alberta's economy continues to struggle, rates of domestic violence will likely rise, according to new research from the Universityof Alberta.

Alberta already has the highest rates of interpersonal violence of any province in Canada. In the last five years, nearly 75,000 Albertans have reported violence by a spouse or partner.

Astudy recently published in BMC Women's Health suggestsissues like risingunemployment in an economic downturn could contribute to the troubling statistics.

"With the economic downturn, and the research and links that we've seen, we can expect to see an increase in domesticviolenceand interpersonal violence," saidStephanie Montesanti, a health policy expert and assistant professor in the U of A'sSchool of Public Health.

The study found that interpersonal violence is not only a symptom of unhealthy relationships, but everyday living conditions, including housing, education and economic status.

"Violence is a public-health problem," Montesanti said in a interview on Radio Active."When we look at the social determinants of health, we see inequities."

Rates of violence are higher amongvulnerable populationsincluding those living in poverty, struggling to find employment, or living with addictions, Montesantisaid.

More fundamental demographics, such asethnicity, disability and gender can also make people more vulnerable to abuse, according to the study.

Alberta is home to many vulnerable populations, including immigrants, visible minorities, and indigenous people, Montesantisaid.

Those demographics provide some insight into why the province continues to lead the country in rates of domestic violence, she said.

In times of economic instability, reliablepublicprogrammingsuch asemployment and housing supports,becomes even more critical, according to Montesanti who would like to see agencies be more active in their approach to the problem.

"Public health has been successful in reducing the prevalence of many complex health problems," Montesanti said.

"The same factors that influence obesity and chronic disease contribute to interpersonal violence. If we can address them, we can address violence in our communities."