PUB - Publikationen an der Universität Bielefeld

Studies that examine the exposure to community violence (CVE) among young adults in developing countries are limited. This study aimed at estimating the prevalence and types of CVE and its behavioural and mental health correlates among Lebanese university students. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 450 university students were sampled using proportionate sampling design. Overall, 70.3% of the sample reported witnessing violence and 49.1% violence victimization. The most common type of witnessing community violence was hearing gunfire, while the highest reported type of violence victimization was being threatened. After adjusting for potential socio-demographic confounders, alcohol binge drinking was the strongest correlate of CVE. Regarding mental health, psychological distress was significantly associated with both forms of CVE after accounting for relevant variables. The prevalence of CVE appears to be high among Lebanese young adults. Universities in Lebanon are encouraged to increase students' awareness about community violence.