These crimes happen to both women and men and are often associated with substan
These crimes happen to both women and men and are often associated with substance use. A recent national survey found that 22 percent of women and 14 percent of men reported experiencing severe physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetimes.[1] IPV is a significant public health issue that has many individual and societal costs. About 35% of female IPV survivors and more than 11% of male IPV survivors experience some form of physical injury related to IPV, and some deaths occur. About 1 in 5 homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner, and over half of female homicide victims in the US are killed by a current or former male intimate partner.[2] See Figure 15.8[3] for a CDC infographic related to IPV.
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is abuse or aggression that occurs in a romantic 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. IPV can include any of the following types of behaviors[4]:
- Physical violence: When a person hurts or tries to hurt a partner by hitting, kicking, or using another type of physical force
- Sexual violence: Forcing or attempting to force a partner to take part in a sex act, sexual touching, or a nonphysical sexual event (e.g., sexting) when the partner does not or cannot consent
- Stalking: 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
- Psychological aggression: The use of verbal and/or nonverbal communication with the intent to harm another partner mentally or emotionally and/or to exert control over another partner
View the following CDC YouTube video on intimate partner violence[5]: What is Intimate Partner Violence?
Teen Dating Violence
When IPV occurs during adolescence, it is referred to as teen dating violence (TDV). TDV affects millions of U.S. teens each year. Youth from marginalized groups, such as the LGBTQ+ population are at greatest risk of experiencing sexual and physical dating violence.[6] The use of alcohol and drugs is also a risk factor for non-consensual sexual contact among undergraduate and graduate students.[7] See Figure 15.9[8] for an infographic used to teach about healthy relationships.
Warning Signs of Intimate Partner Violence
These observations should heighten a nurse’s suspicion of IPV[9]:
- Inconsistent explanation of injuries.
- Delay in seeking treatment for injuries.
- Frequent emergency department or urgent care visits. (Abusers typically do not want their victims to form an ongoing care relationship with one clinician. They may feel the victim will be less likely to find an ally in an emergency department where care may be more fragmented.)
- Missed appointments. The patient may not keep appointments because the abuser wil