The risk factors of abusive relationships for nontraditional students

Objective: To examine the effect of nontraditional student status on abusive relationships, namely emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. Participants: The 2011–2014 American College Health Association National College Health Assessment (ACHA-NCHA) II data (N = 102,563) were utilized for the analysis. Methods: Logistic regression models were employed as the outcome variables were dichotomous. Results: Non-traditional students compared to traditional ones indeed had higher odds ratios of having abusive relationships. Nontraditional students compared to traditional students, however, were more likely to experience emotional and physical abuse, but not sexual abuse. Conclusions: The prevention programs and policies related to abusive relationships need to be address differently based on the results of this study, which is also essential for nontraditional students to adjust and succeed in higher education and further their careers.