What is Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)?
The term “Intimate partner violence” refers to abuse that occurs in a current or former relationship. Intimate partner abuse includes: stalking, physical violence, sexual violence, and psychological harm (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020). IPV, referred to in the Georgia State Sexual Misconduct Policy, as Dating and/or Domestic Violence, is an issue that affects members of any race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation. It is important to note that not all forms of IPV look the same, and often its occurrences can be spread out over the course of months or years.
How Common is Intimate Partner Violence?
IPV affects millions of people in the United States each year. According to the CDC, around 1 in 3 women, and 1 in 4 men have experienced sexual abuse, physical abuse, and/or stalking by a partner during their lifetime. That amounts to around 20 people per minute being physically abused by their partner here in the U.S. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020).
Consequences of Intimate Partner Violence
IPV often affects a victim’s physical and mental health. Depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and a disposition for drug and alcohol dependency, are all negative health outcomes associated with IPV. Also, it has negative impacts on society. According to the CDC, the lifetime economic cost associated with medical services, lost productivity from paid work, criminal justice and other costs related to IPV was $3.6 trillion. The cost of IPV over an individual victim’s lifetime was reported to be anywhere from $23,414 to $103,000 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020).
How has IPV been affected by Covid-19?
While the numbers are still uncertain in many respects, hospitals and law enforcement agencies have seen a surge in domestic violence cases since the beginning of Covid-19 pandemic. Stressors such as finances, stay at-home orders, and risk of illness have exacerbated many, often making unhealthy relationships even more volatile. According to the CDC, while the reports of abuse related to Covid-19 are unknown, there is a large fear many cases of abuse are going unreported.
What can I do?
Supporting and encouraging healthy relationships can reduce the chances of Dating and Domestic Violence happening within your relationships and amongst your friends. Below are actions steps everyone within the university community can take to help reduce rates of IPV.
- Teach and Encourage safe and healthy relationship skills for yourself and your friends.
- Join an organization within the university, such as the Men in Violence Prevention (MVP) initiative, or a similar organization within your community to raise awareness and provide education.
Resources for Victims of IPV
If you are a student at GSU, consider calling Student Victim Assistance. Students who seek victim assistance services are not obligated to pursue criminal or university charges. Students who would like more information or would like to schedule an appointment to speak with Student Victim Assistance staff can call 404-413-1965.
Other Resources at GSU
Resources outside of GSU
- 24-Hour Hotline Partnership Against Domestic Violence - 404-873-1766
- Atlanta Victim Assistance Program - 404-588-4740
Sources
Retrieved from Student Victim Assistance
Retrieved from Preventing Intimate Partner Violence