What screening tool is commonly used to assess risk factors for domestic violence?

The HITS screening tool, which stands for Hurt, Insult, Threaten, and Scream, is specifically designed to assess the risk factors associated with domestic violence. It consists of four straightforward questions that inquire about the experiences of individuals regarding the behaviors listed. This tool helps healthcare providers identify patients who may be experiencing intimate partner violence and assists in determining the severity and frequency of these experiences.

Using HITS is particularly beneficial in clinical settings because it allows practitioners to address a sensitive topic in a structured and respectful manner. The results can guide further assessment, intervention, and referrals to appropriate support services for individuals at risk.

In contrast, other options such as the PHQ-9, Beck Depression Inventory, and GAD-7 are primarily focused on assessing mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. While these assessments are valuable in their domains, they do not specifically target domestic violence risk factors. Thus, HITS is the appropriate choice when the objective is to evaluate potential domestic violence experiences.