An Interactive, Asynchronous Intimate Partner Violence Module for Medical Students: Improving Preparedness, Confidence, and Knowledge

MedEdPORTAL. 2026 Jul 14;22:11618. doi: 10.15766/mep_2374-8265.11618. eCollection 2026.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a cyclical pattern of behavior that can cause physical, psychological, and/or sexual harm with significant risks, including posttraumatic stress disorder. The primary aim of IPV is to establish or maintain power over the partner. While many organizations recommend screening for IPV, there is limited exposure to IPV in medical school curricula. This critical gap represents opportunity for further education. Thus, an interactive module on IPV was created for medical students on their psychiatry clerkship to teach skills in assessment, treatment planning, and resources. This study evaluates the module’s effectiveness and medical students’ readiness in addressing IPV in clinical settings.

METHODS: The module provides a structured overview of IPV, including epidemiology, barriers to seeking help, and screening approaches. It incorporates video-based clinical scenarios, allowing learners to observe and practice how to recognize and respond to IPV in real-world settings. Pre- and postmodule surveys were administered to assess changes in knowledge, confidence, and preparedness in addressing IPV. Individual item scores were summed within each domain, and pre- and postmodule total scores were compared using paired t tests.

RESULTS: Data were collected from 122 third-year medical students. Students showed statistically significant improvements in knowledge and reported higher confidence and preparedness (P < .001) after completing the module. More students correctly identified risk factors, felt adequately trained, and were more comfortable discussing IPV.

DISCUSSION: The IPV module improved students’ knowledge, confidence, and preparedness in addressing IPV. Future studies should assess long-term retention and its impact on clinical practice.

PMID:42453765 | PMC:PMC13364887 | DOI:10.15766/mep_2374-8265.11618