Intimate partner violence encompasses numerous types of violence. This includes physical acts of violence which is defined as “intentional use of force with the potential to cause death, disability, injury, or harm” (Krebs, Breiding, Browne & Warner, 2011). Sexual acts of violence is the general term used to describe the use of physical force to engage or attempt to engage in sexual activity without consent or willingness of the second party. The term stalking includes being threatened or harassed by the abuser. The perpetrator will most likely show up at the place of business or primary residence of the victim without notice or approval. This may include threatening phone calls or written messages. In some instances, …show more content…
Commonly with physical or sexual acts of violence, we also see the abuser utilize extremely detrimental psychological acts of aggression which typically involves threats or actions to control or coercion of the victim through the use of humiliation or isolation (Krebs, Breiding, Browne & Warner, 2011). To be defined as intimate partner violence, this abuse or threats must come from a current or former partner that the victim was intimate with. This may include assault, social isolation, intimidation, battery, emotional abuse or financial deprivation (Gottleib, 2008). It is estimated that this form of violence affects over 40 million women and over 30 million men in the United States. Intimate partner violence has intense influence on society and has created a great burden on individuals, families and healthcare systems. (Black et al., 2011). This kind of abuse has been found to have significant implications on the health of the victims. There are many surrounding questions regarding the profound effect this abuse causes for women. For the purpose of this paper, we will focus our efforts in determining a response to this question: Are women who are victims of intimate partner violence at an increased risk of developing mental illness and other life altering health conditions compared to those who are not affected