Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate partner violence (IPV), also known as domestic violence, occurs when a person intentionally threatens or causes harm to a current or previous partner or spouse. IPV may look like physical and sexual violence, stalking, psychological abuse, and controlling behaviors. From person to person, it can vary in frequency and severity, and affects relationships across the lifespan from young dating teens to elderly couples. 

For children, witnessing or exposure to IPV can be traumatic and may result in immediate and long-term effects such as: 

• Anxiety 
• Nightmares and/or insomnia 
• Challenges maintaining focus 
• Increased aggression 
• Heightened separation anxiety from parents  
• Concerns about personal safety, and safety of their parent 
• Physical health issues 
• Poor school performance 
• Behavioral issues, such as alcohol or substance use 
• Emotional struggles that persist into adulthood  

The resources below are compiled for you to use as you work alongside and support survivors, children, and families who have experienced intimate partner violence.