Probability of Experiencing Domestic Violence

The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey estimates that about 25% of women (1 in 4) and 10% of men (1 in 10) have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner with related negative impact. Over 10 million domestic violence incidents occur annually in the United States.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) includes physical violence, sexual violence, psychological aggression, and stalking. IPV affects people of all ages, races, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds, though certain populations face higher risk: women aged 18-34, American Indian/Alaska Native women, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ individuals. IPV is the leading cause of homicide for women, with about 55% of female homicide victims killed by a current or former intimate partner.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline receives about 650,000 calls per year. Despite the prevalence of IPV, reporting rates remain low: about 55% of IPV incidents are not reported to police. Barriers to leaving include financial dependence, fear of escalation, children, immigration status, and psychological manipulation. Evidence-based interventions include safety planning, legal protections (restraining orders), counseling for survivors, and batterer intervention programs.