Özlem DOĞAN YÜKSEKOL, Nazlı BALTACI, Özlem KOÇ
Türk Fen ve Sağlık Dergisi - 2026;7(1):40-46
Purpose: To determine midwifery students' perceptions of obstetric violence and the sociodemographic and clinical experience factors associated with these perceptions. Material and Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted at a state university in western Türkiye with 119 midwifery students in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th years. Data were collected between February 10 and March 10, 2025, using a Personal Information Form and the Obstetric Violence Perception Scale (OVPS). The scale demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach's alpha=0.88). Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, independent t-test, one-way ANOVA with Tukey HSD, and Pearson correlation analysis. Results: The mean OVPS score was 99.61 +/- 14.11, indicating above-moderate perception levels. Significant differences were found according to grade level (p=0.018), witnessing at least one birth (p=0.009), and belief that women are treated differently according to their economic status (p=0.044). Younger students showed higher perception scores (r= -0.283, p=0.002). Conclusion: Midwifery students' perceptions of obstetric violence were above moderate levels and influenced by sociodemographic and experiential factors. Educational programs should integrate respectful maternity care, human rights, and trauma-informed approaches to strengthen students' awareness and reduce obstetric violence in future clinical practice.
