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: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)

Connecticut Coaltion Against Domestic Violence: 1-888-774-2900

Connecticut Sexual Assault Crisis Services, Inc.(CONNSACS): 1-888-999-5545 or 1-888-568-8332 (En Espanol)

Source: The National Women's Health Information Center

Relevant Links

Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Dating Violence Resource Center
Domestic Violence - Medline Plus - National Library of Medicine
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
National Domestic Violence Hotline