This study is testing a smartphone-delivered program to help women living in informal settlements in Kenya manage intimate partner violence (IPV) and stress related to extreme weather events. Women in these communities often face high levels of violence from partners, challenges caused by climate-related events, and limited access to support services.
Participants will be randomly assigned to either a mobile intervention or a comparison condition. The mobile program provides short, tailored sessions that help women learn safety planning, coping skills, and strategies for adapting to climate-related stress. The program also offers tools to improve communication and strengthen social support.
The main goal of the study is to see whether this smartphone-based approach can reduce the frequency and severity of IPV over 12 months. The study will also examine changes in stress levels, self-confidence in handling problems, social support, and safety behaviors.
Results from this study may help create accessible, scalable support for women experiencing IPV and climate-related stress in similar settings.
Female
Age 18 years or older
Resident of Kibera or Mathare informal settlement in Nairobi, Kenya
Speaks Swahili or English
No past-year intimate partner violence reported in parent study
Did not participate in the parent study (1R21MH127356)
Under 18 years of age
Unable to provide informed consent
Africa Institute of Mental and Brain Health (AFRIMEB)
Lead sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator