Domestic violence, also called intimate partner violence, is the pattern of power and control perpetrated by one partner against another. It often starts out as threats and verbal abuse, and in some cases may lead to physical and other forms of violence. Intimate partner violence can be difficult to recognize while the survivor is actually in the relationship because the dynamics of the relationship may slowly change over time. Some people may not recognize controlling or abusive behaviors as unhealthy, may down-play how harmful the behaviors are, or may be hopeful that their partner will change.
Intimate partner violence is prevalent in every community, and affects people regardless of age, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality. Although there has been substantial progress in reducing intimate partner violence, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience physical violence, sexual violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner, with impacts such as injury, fearfulness, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other forms of physical or mental health issues.
Understanding what intimate partner violence is and the many ways it can show up in relationships is the first step to creating a culture that has zero tolerance for these behaviors. It can be perpetrated in many different ways - emotionally, physically, sexually, financially, and more. To learn about the different ways intimate partner violence can happen, a good resource is the Domestic Abuse Intervention Program’s Power and Control wheel.
If you recognize any of these behaviors, help is available.
- If you are in immediate danger, call 911
- For more information or to get help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), text “START” to 88788, or chat with an advocate online.
This Domestic Violence Awareness Month and always, Planned Parenthood stands with survivors and against any and all forms of harm and abuse. When patients in our health centers are experiencing intimate partner violence, they are connected to the Care Coordination Program, which provides additional resources and services. A member of that team will reach out to our patients within two business days to see how we can best support patients and get them connected with services. About 25 percent of the folks we serve in Care Coordination are experiencing intimate partner violence.
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