Facts About Domestic Violence

Facts About Domestic Violence

• Most domestic violence incidents are never reported.
• One in 4 women will experience domestic violence during her lifetime. The same number (one in four) of LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer) individuals also experience domestic violence.
• Women ages 20 to 24 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.
• Every year, 1 in 3 women who is a victim of homicide is murdered by her current or former partner.

Domestic Violence and Its Impact on Children

• Every year, more than 3 million children witness domestic violence in their homes.
• A 2005 Michigan study found that 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

• According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, domestic violence is the third leading cause of homelessness among families.
• 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.