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 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is common
It affects millions of people in the United States each year. Data from CDC’s National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS) indicate:

  • About 1 in 4 women and nearly 1 in 10 men have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime and reported some form of IPV-related impact.
  • Over 43 million women and 38 million men experienced psychological aggression by and intimate partner in their lifetime.

How We Can Help You

  • The nurses at CRMC in the Forensic Nursing Department are specially trained to care foe victims of crime including but not limited to domestic violence/intimate partner violence. We can assist you with notifying law enforcement if you wish to report, collect evidence, photography, medical forensic physical exam, and follow up services.
  • Assist you in contacting advocacy.
  • Assist you in setting up a safe place to stay such as Safehouse or other services.
  • Assist you in developing a safety plan.
  • Support you in whatever decision you decide is best in your individual situation and help you move forward with a plan that considers your safety and that of your family.