What is intimate partner violence (IVP)?
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is abuse that occurs between two people in a close relationship. The term “intimate partner” includes current and former spouses and dating partners. IPV exists along a continuum from a single episode of violence to ongoing battering. IPV includes four types of behavior: • Physical abuse is when a person hurts or tries to hurt a partner by hitting, kicking, burning, or other physical force. • Sexual abuse is forcing a partner to take part in a sex act when the partner does not consent. • Threats of physical or sexual abuse include the use of words, gestures, weapons, or other means to communicate the intent to cause harm. • Emotional abuse is threatening a partner or his or her possessions or loved ones, or harming a partner’s sense of self-worth. Examples are stalking, name-calling, intimidation, or not letting a partner see friends and family. Often, IPV starts with emotional abuse. This behavior can progress to physical or sexual assault. Several type
