Comparative Prevalence and Impacts of Workplace Violence Against Female and Male Healthcare Providers in Maternal and Child Health Settings of Karachi, Pakistan
Workplace Violence in Maternal and Child Health: Gender Differences
Keywords:
Workplace violence, gender disparities, healthcare providers, maternal health, child health, PakistanAbstract
ABSTRACT
Background
Workplace violence against healthcare providers is a critical global issue, disproportionately affecting high-risk areas like maternal and child health (MCH) services. While the overall burden is recognized, differences in violence prevalence between female and male providers remain understudied.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 414 healthcare providers (55.3% doctors, 14.5% nurses) from pediatric and gynecology departments across 14 public and private hospitals in Karachi. Using stratified random sampling and validated questionnaires, data on violence experiences, perpetrators, frequency, and impacts were collected. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, logistic regression, and stratified subgroup analyses by gender.
Results
Overall, 87.9% of healthcare providers experienced workplace violence. Female providers reported significantly higher violence prevalence (93.2%) compared to males (81.7%, p<0.001), particularly verbal and psychological abuse. Female providers also reported greater impacts on absenteeism (91.3% vs. 82.4%), mental health (72.5% PTSD symptoms vs. 58.2%), and turnover intentions (57.1% vs. 43.5%). Multivariate analysis confirmed female gender as an independent risk factor (aOR=2.01, 95% CI: 1.31–3.09).
Conclusions
Female healthcare providers in MCH settings face higher violence prevalence and more severe consequences than their male counterparts. Targeted security, legal enforcement, and gender-sensitive support interventions are urgently needed.
Keywords
Workplace violence, gender disparities, healthcare providers, maternal health, child health, Pakistan
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