Domestic violence, also referred to as Intimate Partner Violence or IPV, is a pattern of behavior an abuser uses against a victim to exert power and control. This can include physical, sexual, psychological, and/or financial abuse. Domestic violence exists in every social, economic, religious and cultural group and affects a range of relationships- married and unmarried, heterosexual and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT). Abuse in dating relationships is sometimes called relationship abuse.

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC):

• IPV results in nearly 2 million injuries and 1,300 deaths nationwide every year 
• A national survey found that 85% of IPV victims were women
• In 2002, 76% of IPV homicide victims were female; 24% were male
• Between 4% and 8% of pregnant women are abused at least once during pregnancy

This section will help you better understand how domestic violence affects the victim, her children, and the people who care about her. You’ll also find information on safety planning and creating a safe network, whether a victim is in an abusive relationship, trying to leave, or has already left.

You can read this section alone or as a companion piece to JWI's Legal Project.

Information contained on this website should not be construed as legal advice.  Read full disclaimer.