Dating violence was significantly associated (p < 0.01) with poorer mental health including psychosomatic symptoms, anxiety, depression and social dysfunction, with slightly higher prevalence of dating violence in men but higher mental health symptom scores in women.
Dating violence prevalence was slightly higher in men than women among Ecuadorian university students.
Women scored higher than men on mental health symptoms associated with dating violence.
Dating violence was significantly associated with poorer mental health outcomes across multiple symptom domains.
The study concluded that an inclusive and gender-sensitive approach to dating violence is essential regardless of gender.
This research examined the connection between dating violence and mental health problems among over 1,000 university students in Ecuador. Researchers asked students to complete two standardized questionnaires — one measuring experiences of dating violence and one measuring mental health symptoms such as anxiety, depression, physical complaints, and difficulty functioning socially. They then used statistical methods to look for patterns and differences between men and women. The study found that dating violence was associated with worse mental health outcomes, including more anxiety, depression, psychosomatic (physical) symptoms, and social difficulties. Interestingly, men reported slightly higher rates of dating violence than women, while women reported more severe mental health symptoms. This suggests that while both men and women experience dating violence, the psychological toll may manifest differently across genders, with women showing stronger links between victimization and mental health distress. This research suggests that dating violence among young people in university settings is a concern that affects students of all genders, not just women. Prevention and support programs may need to be designed with both men and women in mind, while still recognizing that women may face particular mental health consequences. The findings point to a need for gender-sensitive but inclusive approaches when addressing relationship violence in young adult populations.
Mayra Castillo-Gonzáles, Emilio Terán-Andrade. (2026). Dating violence and mental health issues in Ecuadorian university students. Frontiers in Sociology. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsoc.2026.1743049