El abuso psicológico en las relaciones de parejas heterosexuales de 21 a 40 años de edad como factor de riesgo para la depresión en la parroquia San Bartolo de la ciudad de Quito, período 2024.

Abstract

Psychological abuse in intimate relationships is considered a major issue due to its constant harmful impact on the victims' mental well-being. Despite its high prevalence, this type of violence often goes unnoticed due to a lack of awareness about its effects and intangible nature, manifesting through various actions such as imposing obedience, unjustified blame, humiliation, indifference, omission, and verbal expressions of contempt, disparagement, or insults. This research analyzes the relationship between psychological abuse and depression in heterosexual couples aged 21 to 40 in the San Bartolo parish located in the southern part of Quito city. Quantitative methods were used for data collection with a descriptive scope, specifying the properties, concepts, and characteristics of the variables, and a correlational scope since the data demonstrate the relationship between psychological abuse and depression. It was identified that among the 101 participants, the majority present minimal levels of depression, followed by severe levels, as well as the presence of psychological abuse. From the results obtained using the Psychological Abuse Scale applied in the couple, it was found that 66.3% of participants aged 21 to 40 have been victims of psychological abuse. Additionally, the Beck Depression Inventory was applied, resulting in 11.9% of the surveyed individuals presenting mild and moderate depression, 35.6% severe depression, and 40.6% minimal depression. The research aims to provide the scientific community responsible for mental health with a detailed analysis of how psychological abuse in heterosexual relationships is a risk factor for depression in people who have been victims of this form of violence in a specific geographical context.