Intimate partner violence, also called domestic violence, is the most frequent
type of violence committed against women. Intimate partner violence is when one person
purposely causes either physical or psychological harm to another, including physical
abuse, psychological/emotional abuse, sexual assault, isolation, or economic abuse
(controlling all of the victim's money, shelter, time, food, etc.). Most often, the
violent person is a husband, former husband, boyfriend, or ex-boyfriend, but sometimes the
abuser is female.
This very common problem should be taken very seriously. One in four women
report that they have been victims of intimate partner violence or stalking by someone
they know. These crimes occur in both heterosexual and same-sex relationships. The
consequences of intimate partner violence can be devastating to women. Physical and
emotional trauma can lead to increased stress, depression, lowered self-esteem, and post-traumatic stress disorder (an emotional state
of discomfort and stress associated with the memories of a disturbing event).
Violence against women by any one is always wrong, whether the abuser is a
current or past spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend; someone you date; a family member; 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 a victim of intimate partner violence, seek help from other family
members and friends or community organizations. Make sure you and your children are SAFE.
Reach out for support or counseling. Talk with a health care provider, especially if you
have been physically hurt. Learn more about how to
get help for intimate partner or domestic violence. Another important part of getting
help is knowing if you are in an abusive relationship. There are clear signs to help you know if you are being abused.
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)
