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Violence against women affects all racial,
cultural and economic backgrounds. It is a leading cause of injury for American women
between the ages of 15 and 54, but it can happen at any age. Acts of violence have
terrible and costly results for everyone involved, including families, communities, and
society. Violence can take several forms including domestic or intimate partner violence,
sexual assault and abuse, dating violence, and elder abuse.
This specialty page will provide you with
information on all of these types of violence against women, including specific resources
for each type of violence and information on how to get help. One important part of
getting help is knowing if you are in an abusive relationship. Sometimes it can be
difficult and confusing to admit that you are in an abusive relationship. But, there are
clear signs to help you know if you are being abused.
Violence against women in any form is a
crime, regardless of who committed the violent act. It is always wrong, whether the abuser
is a family member; someone you date; a current or past spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend;
an acquaintance; or a stranger. You are not at fault. You did not cause the abuse to
occur, and you are not responsible for the violent behavior of someone else. If you or
someone you know has been sexually, physically, or emotionally abused, seek help from
other family members and friends or community organizations. Reach out for support or
counseling. Talk with a health care provider, especially if you have been physically hurt.
Learn how to minimize your risk of becoming a victim of sexual assault or sexual abuse
before you find yourself in an uncomfortable or threatening situation.
If you're a victim of
violence at the hands of someone you know or love or you are recovering from an assault by
a stranger, you are not alone. To get immediate help and support call
The National Domestic Violence Hotline at:
1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)
Last updated: March, 2003 |