What Is Intimate Partner Violence?

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a dangerous and often hidden form of abuse. Intimate partner violence is a spectrum of harmful actions that is evaluated on both the frequency of harmful behavior and the nature of the actions. This form of abuse is especially frightening and harmful because it is coming from someone the victim knows very well. IPV is also often swept under the rug by its victims because of the social implications of the abusive relationship.

Violence between husbands and wives, boyfriend and girlfriend, or other intimate relationships can be particularly damaging to an abuse victim because of the trust between the abuser and the victim. This form of abuse can have traumatic emotional effects that may be lifelong. Because of the seriousness of these actions, it is crucial for anyone involved in a close personal relationship to be aware of what intimate partner violence is and how it can occur.

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Intimate partner violence can be classified by a variety of different actions. Like other types of abuse, IPV can include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. One thing that sets this type of abuse apart from other forms of abuse is that threatening to use any of the other three types of abuse is also considered a violent action. Threatening a spouse, ex-spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend with the possibility of sexual or physical violence in order to achieve one's goal is a punishable offense.

What Is Intimate Partner Violence?

These actions can develop in a number of different ways and situations. Generally, IPV becomes prevalent when one or both partners are under a great deal of stress, suffering from a traumatic event, or were abused or witnessed abuse as a child. Knowing the signs can help to identify and stop IPV before it begins.

What Is Intimate Partner Violence?