Unraveling the link: exploring violence in connection to socioeconomic status, demographic factors, and substance use in adolescents and young adults

Background: There is a lack of reliable information regarding the factors associated with violence in underdeveloped countries. This study examines the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES), demographic factors, substance use, and violence in the Fasa Youth Cohort (FYC), focusing on how these risk factors affect both sexes.

Methods: Using baseline data from 3013 participants aged 15-34 in the FYC, we assessed violence and its potential predictors via validated questionnaires. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, independent t-tests, and multivariate logistic regression to identify associations. Effect sizes were reported as Cramer’s V for chi-square tests and Cohen’s d for independent t-tests. P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results: Violent behavior was reported in 45.6% of participants. High SES was significantly associated with increased violence (OR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.33-1.95; p < 0.001). Additional risk factors included female sex, alcohol use, smoking, high BMI, and depression. Furthermore, sex-differentiated analysis revealed that high SES, early marriage, depression, smoking, and opioid addiction, were associated with greater violence in both sexes. However, intermediate SES and high BMI were risk factors only among women. Conclusion: Implementing measures to prevent and treat depression, decrease smoking, opiate and alcohol use, regulate individuals’ BMI, discourage early marriage, and promote empathetic behaviors might effectively mitigate violence in society.