Domestic violence tends to recur and increase in severity over time. The problem of domestic violence crosses all socio-economic boundaries. Battered women are of every age, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation and social class, both married and single. Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women in the United States, more common than auto accidents, rapes, and muggings combined. It is estimated that a woman is battered every 7.5 seconds in the United States.
Domestic violence is the most frequently occurring and underreported crime in the nation.
It is the most common reason women go the hospital emergency room. One-third of all children who witness domestic violence in their home develop emotional problems. Boys from homes with violence are 10 times more likely to be abusive in their adult intimate relationships. By the age of 20, one-third of all young women will experience dating violence. If your partner does any of these, you may be in an abusive relationship.