One in four women and one in nine men have experienced severe intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner contact sexual violence, or intimate partner stalking with impacts such as injury, fearfulness, post-traumatic stress disorder, use of victim services, contraction of sexually transmitted diseases, etc. as a result of population-based survey data in the US.
On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. This equates to more than 10 million men and women annually. This issue affects individuals of all genders, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds, demonstrating that domestic violence is a widespread problem that can impact anyone.
It is estimated that 1 in 15 children are exposed to intimate partner violence each year, and 90% of these children are eyewitnesses to this violence. This exposure can have long-lasting impacts on a child’s mental and emotional well-being, and can also increase the likelihood that they will become involved in abusive relationships themselves later in life.
Domestic violence is also a leading cause of homelessness for women, with 38% of all female homicide victims killed by intimate partners. In fact, more than half of all female homicide victims in the US are killed by a current or former intimate partner. This highlights the severity of the issue and the urgent need for intervention and support for victims of domestic violence.
Despite the prevalence of domestic violence in America, many cases go unreported. Only 34% of people who are injured by intimate partners receive medical care for their injuries, demonstrating that a significant portion of victims suffer in silence and do not seek help or support. This underreporting can make it difficult to fully understand the scope of the problem and to provide adequate resources for those in need.
The impact of domestic violence extends beyond the physical harm inflicted on victims. It can also have profound effects on their mental health, leading to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Victims of domestic violence are also at a higher risk of substance abuse and suicidal behavior, highlighting the urgent need for resources and support for those who have experienced this trauma.
In addition to the personal toll that domestic violence takes on individuals and families, it also has significant financial implications for society as a whole. The cost of intimate partner violence exceeds $8.3 billion each year, including medical expenses, lost productivity, and criminal justice costs. This financial burden underscores the importance of addressing domestic violence as a public health crisis and investing in prevention and intervention efforts to break the cycle of abuse.
Overall, the statistics surrounding domestic violence in America are alarming and underscore the urgent need for action to address this pervasive issue. By raising awareness, providing support for victims, and holding abusers accountable for their actions, we can work towards creating a society free from the scourge of domestic violence and ensure that all individuals can live safely and free from fear in their own homes.
Nada Foundation
to help girls and women
