From individual to community: A mediation model of support for women experiencing intimate partner abuse

Objective This study examines the contribution of income, familial and social support, sense of community, and societal conditional regard to the well‐being and self‐efficacy of women experiencing intimate partner abuse (IPA) in Israel. Background The prevalence of IPA is a recognized global public health threat. While most research focuses on individual psychological impacts, feminist theory suggests broader community systems play crucial roles in women's experiences. Methods This study analyzed data from Israeli women ( n = 124; aged 25–75, M = 40.5, SD = 9.8) who experienced IPA. Path analysis tested a mediation model examining how community factors and income contribute to well‐being and self‐efficacy. Results Familial and social support mediated relationships between community factors and outcomes. Sense of community and societal conditional positive regard functioned as protective factors, whereas societal conditional negative regard emerged as a risk factor. Economic status influenced support systems, with lower income women receiving less support, negatively affecting well‐being and self‐efficacy. Conclusion Communities serve dual roles for women experiencing IPA—providing protection through positive regard and connection, while potentially undermining well‐being through negative conditional attitudes. Implications These findings highlight the need for community‐based interventions alongside individual treatment approaches, emphasizing the connection between private and public spheres in addressing IPA.