Violence is a multi-faceted and complex problem of enormous social consequence.
The physical consequences of violence, including homicide, suicide, rape, battering, and child abuse are obvious outcomes. The psychosocial effects of violence are more subtle, yet may ultimately result in overt trauma. For example, emotional abuse arising from inequities in power in interpersonal relationships whether in the family, the workplace, or community, may increase risk of violent injury. Thus, it is important to determine the magnitude and potential risk factors for all aspects of violence. While there is some evidence about the risk factors for various types of violence, adequate scientific data are limited.