Domestic abuse, also known as domestic violence, is a widespread and serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can take many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse, and it can happen to anyone regardless of their age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. In this blog, we will explore the latest research on domestic abuse and provide resources for those who may be experiencing or witnessing domestic abuse.
Latest Research on Domestic Abuse:
- The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS)
The NISVS is a nationally representative survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that measures the prevalence, frequency, and consequences of intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and stalking. The most recent survey was conducted in 2019 and found that:
- 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
- 43.9% of women and 29.6% of men experienced some form of contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
- 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experienced some form of contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
- 9% of women and 2.4% of men have been stalked by an intimate partner at some point in their lives.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/2019-NISVS-Detailed-Report-508.pdf
- The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Domestic Abuse
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on domestic abuse. Lockdowns, social isolation, and economic stress have all contributed to an increase in domestic abuse incidents. According to a global survey conducted by the United Nations, 90% of countries reported an increase in domestic abuse cases during the pandemic.
- Trauma-Informed Approaches to Domestic Abuse
Trauma-informed approaches to domestic abuse recognize that survivors of abuse often have complex trauma and require a multidisciplinary, holistic approach to treatment and recovery. These approaches prioritize safety, empowerment, and healing and involve collaboration between healthcare providers, social workers, legal advocates, and other professionals.
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC80858/
Resources:
- The National Domestic Violence Hotline
The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals to local resources for individuals experiencing domestic abuse. They also provide support and resources for friends and family members of survivors.
Source: https://www.thehotline.org/
- RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
RAINN is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization. They provide support for survivors of sexual violence and their loved ones, as well as resources for preventing and responding to sexual violence.
Source: https://www.rainn.org/
- The National Resource Center on Domestic Violence
The National Resource Center on Domestic Violence provides training, resources, and technical assistance for individuals and organizations working to end domestic violence. They also conduct research and policy analysis to inform and improve the field of domestic violence prevention and intervention.
Source: https://nrcdv.org/