Chemical dependency and violence in the female universe: an integrative review

Abstract

Objective: to review the scientific evidence on the links between substance abuse and violence in the female universe. Methods: integrative review on the basis of Latin American and Caribbean Literature on Health Sciences Data, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health. The revision process was guided by the question: what is the relationship between substance abuse and violence in the feminine universe? Results: from the literature search we identified 16 primary studies. The synthesis of knowledge showed multiple face of violence against women, the risk factors associated with emphasis on the use of psychoactive substances. Conclusion: evidence suggests that violence against women can be physical, psychological and sexual. These bring significant implications for the physical and mental health of the victim, making emergent the implementation of effective measures that help to reduce this problem and to minimize the consequences.