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 Levin & Nalbandyan, LLP, 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?
The ongoing defamation trial launched by Johnny Depp against his ex-spouse Amber Heard has raised the question of whether their marriage was filled with abuse and who was the aggressor.
Allegations have been made by both parties that there were physical altercations on multiple occasions. Physical abuse along with sexual abuse are forms of intimate partner violence that can have life-altering consequences.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines intimate partner violence as:
- Physical violence
- Sexual violence
- Stalking
- Psychological aggression
As noted by the CDC, intimate partner violence can occur between both current and former spouses as well as dating partners. It can happen once or over the course of several years.
How Common is Intimate Partner Violence?
It is estimated that around 1 in 4 women has experienced intimate partner violence at some point in their lifetime. Additionally, nearly 1 in 10 men have experienced sexual violence, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner.
An intimate partner may be:
- A current or former spouse
- Boyfriend or girlfriend
- Dating partner
- Sexual partner
The CDC reports that in excess of 38 million men and 43 million women have experienced psychological aggression from an intimate partner within their lifetime. Psychological aggression can be verbal or non-verbal communication and is done with the intent to harm the other partner. Harm may be mental, emotional, or used in a way to exert control over their partner.
What Are the Consequences of IPV?
The consequences of intimate partner violence are widespread and not limited to the person experiencing the abuse.
Health consequences of IPV can include:
- Heart problems
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Reproductive problems
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
IPV can also turn deadly. In the United States, approximately 1 in 5 murder victims are killed by an intimate partner.
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 Levin & Nalbandyan, 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.
