What is IPV (Intimate Partner Violence) and How Often is It Involved in Sexual Abuse?

To protect yourself and your loved ones from harm, it is vital that you know how to recognize what is IPV (intimate partner violence) and how often it is involved in sexual abuse. 

At LNN, we know the devastation IPV can have on a family. We represent sexual abuse victims in civil matters, and our sexual abuse attorneys help the injured hold perpetrators accountable. If you or a loved one is experiencing sexual abuse, contact our office at (213) 232-4848 for a free and confidential consultation.

Understanding the Impact and Widespread Reality of Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate partner violence is a serious and widespread problem affecting millions of adults across the globe. It can have a long-lasting impact on the health and well-being of not only the person experiencing the abuse but also other family members. It is important to seek help if you are experiencing any form of abuse or assault.

At LNN, we know the devastation intimate partner violence can have on a family. While we represent sexual abuse victims in civil matters, there may also be a criminal case against the perpetrator. If you or a loved one is experiencing sexual abuse, contact our office at (213) 232-4848 for a free and confidential consultation.

What is Intimate Partner Violence?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), intimate partner violence is any form of violence or aggression that occurs in a romantic relationship, and it can involve sexual abuse. 

IPV can vary in severity. It can also vary in how often it happens. Sometimes, the violence is isolated to a single incident. Sometimes, it is a pattern of chronic violence and abuse. 

Are There Different Types of Intimate Partner Violence? 

There are different types of intimate partner violence. IPV may include the following types of behaviors: 

• Physical violence – Physical violence is the use of physical force against another person, including hitting, kicking, burning, biting, or using weapons
• Sexual violence – Sexual violence is any type of forced or coerced sexual contact, including unwanted touching and rape
• Stalking – Stalking is repeated and unwanted attention from a romantic partner that makes the subject of the attention feel unsafe
• Psychological aggression – Psychological aggression involves non-verbal communication intended to threaten, control, or cause mental or emotional harm 

IPV is often involved in ongoing patterns of domestic violence and sexual abuse. 

If you are experiencing IPV, there are resources available to you. You can get help and support through the National Domestic Violence Hotline online or by calling 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault can also contact the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) online or by phone at 800-656-4673 (HOPE).

Key Characteristics of Intimate Partner Violence

The primary characteristic of IPV is that it involves the abuse and sexual abuse of one romantic partner at the hands of another. Intimate partner violence can occur between both current and former spouses as well as dating partners. An intimate partner may be:

• A current or former spouse
• Boyfriend or girlfriend
• Dating partner
• Sexual partner

Another key characteristic is that it is often used as a way for one partner to manipulate or control the other. In addition to physical, sexual, and psychological violence, it frequently involves the exertion of financial control, the isolation of an individual from their friends and family, and the monitoring/restricting of where an individual may go.

How Common is Intimate Partner Violence?

Intimate partner violence and intimate partner sexual abuse are likely more common than you think. 

IPV affects both men and women, and can affect anyone who engages in a romantic relationship, including adults and teens. 

Often, IPV is difficult to recognize, both from inside and outside of a relationship. Perpetrators of IPV can seem charming (at first), and signs of manipulation and control can be normalized or hidden within the dynamic of a relationship. Additionally, instances of IPV may begin gradually and escalate over time.

What Are the Consequences of IPV?

The consequences of intimate partner violence and sexual abuse are widespread and can be physical, mental, emotional, and financial. 

Individuals who experience IPV can suffer from injuries and health conditions caused by physical violence and sexual abuse, such as cuts, bruising, broken bones, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unwanted pregnancy. 

IPV can also cause long-term chronic health conditions and mental health problems, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions can make it difficult for survivors to go to work or maintain employment. 

Survivors Can Seek Justice

If you are a survivor of IPV or sexual abuse, our law firm’s sexual abuse lawyers could help you seek justice in civil court. We could pursue compensation for your physical and mental healthcare, lost income, and pain and suffering. 

Any civil action you take is separate from any criminal charges that arise from the IPV or abuse you have suffered. However, you can use evidence from a criminal case in a civil case, as well.

Contact Our Office for a Free Consultation

Sexual abuse and other forms of intimate partner violence are pervasive problems. Any allegations of abuse or assault should be taken seriously and immediately addressed. Depending on the circumstances, there may be both a civil lawsuit and a criminal case.

At LNN, we represent individuals in personal injury matters, including those that have survived sexual abuse. Contact our office at (213) 232-4848 for a free and confidential consultation.