Domestic violence is pervasive throughout the country, and the stigma behind it often leads to those experiencing domestic violence becoming isolated from their support systems. This is only compounded by the isolation many survivors experience because of the dynamics of power and control. I think it is important for all survivors to understand that they are not alone, and that help is available. Additionally, the general public needs to understand that domestic violence is an epidemic.

The CDC conducted the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS) in 2010 to evaluate how many people have been affected by domestic violence. They surveyed millions of women and men in all 50 states. This survey is where the famous “1-in-4” statistic came from. The CDC found that 1 in 4 adult women and 1 in 7 men experienced severe physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime (i). This is probably an underrepresentation as well because of the stigma that domestic violence brings. Many people are afraid to admit that they have experienced domestic violence, or are not aware that they have. Furthermore, these results are for sever physical violence. Psychological abuse affects men and women at similar rates. Half (ii) of the men and women who were surveyed reported that they experienced psychological abuse (e.g. humiliation, coercion, power and control). On a state level, 41.6% of women and 41.5% of men surveyed in Utah reported experiencing psychological abuse in their lifetime. Additionally, those who identify as LGB (they did not survey those who identify as transgender) experience intimate partner violence at a similar and even higher rate than heterosexual people, with bisexual women affected at disproportionately higher rates (iii). This is only a brief overview of some of the results from this study. I urge you to look at each website to see all of the results.

Next, let’s take a look at some of the statistics in Utah. According to the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition:

“Between 2010 and 2013:    

• 88% of domestic violence homicide perpetrators were male

• A firearm was the weapon in 59% of the cases

• 39% of perpetrators had a criminal domestic violence history

• 22% of these murderers were previously ordered to “treatment” by the court

• In 22% of the cases, children were either involved or witnessed the homicide

• 34% of the perpetrators died by suicide after the homicide

Lastly, between 2010 and 2013, there was an active protective order in only 2% of the domestic violence homicides perpetrated.” Furthermore, the coalition also stated that “since 2000, at least 42% of adult homicides in Utah were domestic violence related.” (iv)

Needless to say, these statistics are alarming. I think one of the most unfortunate parts of this is that only 2% of the victims had protective orders. To me, this shows the effect of isolation and stigma that is a hallmark of domestic violence. People who are experiencing domestic violence are not receiving the support that they need to keep themselves safe. Domestic violence is unfortunately common in this state and people need to be aware of the help that is available. If you are experiencing domestic violence, please reach out to safe people. You do not have to go through this alone. I am committed to being an advocate and support person for those experiencing domestic violence so please feel free to contact me if you would like assistance. Aside from that, the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition runs what is called the LINKLine at 1-800-897-LINK (5465). This is a free resource that provides support for those experiencing domestic violence, and is completely confidential. Only call this line if you are in a safe location and can do so in a private manner. If the situation is an emergency, call 911 as soon as you are safe and able to do so.

Additionally, the National Domestic Violence Hotline provides support and advocacy for those experiencing domestic violence. You can reach them at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY). They have their own breakdown of statistic related to domestic violence that you can find here. They also have a free live chat option where you can be connected with advocate who can answer any questions you have about what you are experiencing. You can find that here. This service is available in English and Spanish. I also urge you to look around their website as they have detailed information about what exactly domestic violence is if you are unsure if you are experiencing domestic violence or not.

Sources:

(i) https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/ipv-factsheet.pdf

(ii) https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/NISVS-StateReportBook.pdf

(iii) https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/cdc_nisvs_victimization_final-a.pdf

(iv) https://www.udvc.org/resources/policy-reports/reports.html