Facts About Domestic Violence

Facts About Domestic Violence

• Most domestic violence incidents are never reported.
• One in 3 women will experience domestic violence during her lifetime. More than 60% of LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer) individuals also experience domestic violence in their lifetime.
• Women ages 18 to 34 are at the greatest risk of becoming victims of domestic violence.
• Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women – more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.
• Every 9 seconds in the U.S. a woman is assaulted or beaten.
• On average, more than 3 women and 1 man are murdered by their intimate partner everyday in the United States.

Domestic Violence and Its Impact on Children

• Every year, more than 5 million children witness domestic violence in their homes.
• Children exposed to domestic violence at home are more likely to have health problems. This includes becoming sick more often, having frequent headaches or stomachaches, and being more tired & lethargic.
• Boys who witness domestic violence are twice as likely to abuse their own partners and children when they become adults.

Domestic Violence and Its Impact on Our Community

• Domestic violence is the leading cause of homelessness for women.
• Survivors of domestic violence face high rates of depression, sleep disturbances, anxiety, flashbacks, and other emotional distress.
• Domestic violence contributes to poor health for many survivors. For example, chronic conditions like heart disease or gastrointestinal disorders can become more serious due to domestic violence.
• Domestic violence costs more than $37 billion a year in law enforcement involvement, legal work, medical and mental health treatment, and lost productivity at companies.

For more information, contact the NNEDV.