Domestic violence (DV), also known as intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic abuse or relationship abuse, is a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship.

Domestic violence does not discriminate!  People of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender can be a victim – or perpetrator – of domestic violence. It can happen to people who are married, living together or who are dating. It affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.

Unfortunately, Domestic Violence is very common. In fact, one in every four women and one in every 10 men will experience DV/IPV in their lifetime. The Department of Labor reports that victims of DV/IPV lose nearly eight million days of paid work per year. Eighty-five percent of DV/IPV victims are women. While 15% are men, this number is growing every year.

DV/IPV includes behaviors that physically harm, arouse fear, prevent a partner from doing what they wish or forcing them to behave in ways they do not want. It includes the use of physical and sexual violence, threats and intimidation, emotional abuse and economic deprivation. Many of these different forms of domestic violence/abuse can be occurring at any one time within the same intimate relationship.

DV/IPV is a very serious, and can be fatal.  According to the 2017 NYC Fatality Review Committee, over the period of 2010 to 2016 the Bronx had the highest number of intimate partner homicides, as well as the highest per capita rate of intimate partner homicides. 2016 was the fourth consecutive year that the Bronx led the City with the highest number of intimate partner homicides. The rate of intimate partner homicide in the Bronx is more than double the rate in the rest of New York City.

If you or someone you know is in need of help, please contact the organizations below. All calls are confidential and services are offered in multiple languages.

Joy Sprenger is a project manager for the Diabetes Prevention Program via Montefiore Health System’s Office of Community & Population Health.

Editor’s Note: For 24/7 help, contact Safe Horizon at (800) 621-HOPE (4673) or the National Domestic Hotline at (800) 799-1233.