Comparison of Mental Health and Resilience in Women with Incarcerated and Non-Incarcerated Husbands in Hashtgerd

Abstract

Objective: The present study, as a fundamental research, aimed to compare the levels of resilience and mental health in two groups of women with incarcerated and non-incarcerated husbands. 
Methods and Materials: This study employed a field research method, and depending on the subject, research questions, and scope, it was conducted using an experimental approach. The statistical population consisted of 90 women with incarcerated husbands who were under the support of the Imam Khomeini Relief Committee and the Prisoners’ Support Association, as well as 90 women with non-incarcerated husbands. The sample was selected using purposive sampling based on Morgan’s table. The data collection instruments included the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) and the Goldberg General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). Both groups were assessed using these questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) with SPSS-24 software.
Findings: The results indicated that women with incarcerated husbands face numerous problems and challenges. Not only are they burdened with the full responsibility of managing their households, raising children, and providing for their families, but they also endure the stigma, social ostracization, and various forms of gender discrimination. These factors contribute to a range of psychological and physiological issues, including physical symptoms, social dysfunction, anxiety, sleep disorders, depression, and impaired mental health. Furthermore, these women exhibit lower levels of resilience and insecure interpersonal relationships. Additionally, due to economic hardships and the desire to escape the stigma associated with their husband's incarceration, they may relocate to distant and unsafe areas, which can result in dangerous consequences and negative outcomes.
Conclusion: Families of incarcerated individuals are highly vulnerable in society, facing significant financial and emotional distress. The control and upbringing of children in these families present additional difficulties and challenges. Overall, the findings of this study demonstrated that the resilience of women with incarcerated husbands is significantly lower than that of women with non-incarcerated husbands.