What is Domestic / Intimate Partner Violence?
Domestic Violence or Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is abuse or aggression that occurs in a close relationship. “Intimate partner” refers to both current and former spouses and dating partners. IPV can vary in how often it happens and how severe it is. It can range from one episode of violence that could have lasting impact to chronic and severe episodes over multiple years.
Types of Domestic Abuse
- Physical Violence: is when a person hurts or tries to hurt a partner by hitting, kicking, or using another type of physical force.
- Sexual Violence: is forcing or attempting to force a partner to take part in a sex act, sexual touching, or a non-physical sexual event (e.g., sexting) when the partner does not or cannot consent.
- Psychological Aggression: is the use of verbal and non-verbal communication with the intent to harm another person mentally or emotionally and/or to exert control over another person.
- Economic Abuse: which involves controlling access to money
- Stalking: is a pattern of repeated, unwanted attention and contact by a partner that causes fear or concern for one’s own safety or the safety of someone close to the victim.