Domestic violence is a deeply painful and complex experience, and the effects go far beyond physical harm. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience intimate partner physical violence in their lifetime.

Understanding how domestic abuse impacts individuals is important in healing. Whether you’re personally affected or looking to support someone else, this blog explores the effects of domestic violence and how therapy can make a meaningful difference.

What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence, also referred to as intimate partner violence or spousal abuse, is a pattern of behaviors used by one person to maintain power and control over another. According to surveys, at least 1.5 million women experience abuse by a male romantic partner annually in the United States, with about 4.8 million incidents of domestic violence perpetrated against women yearly. Community-based surveys also suggest high rates of domestic violence, estimating 12-month prevalence rates ranging from 18-57%.

While physical abuse may be what comes to mind first, domestic violence can take many forms:

  • Emotional abuse: Manipulation, threats, or verbal attacks
  • Financial abuse: Where a partner controls access to money or resources
  • Sexual abuse: Involves non-consensual or coercive sexual acts
  • Psychological abuse: May involve gaslighting, intimidation, and isolation

What is family violence?

Family violence occurs when these harmful patterns extend beyond romantic relationships to include abuse between family members, such as parent-to-child abuse, elder abuse, or sibling bullying. The common thread between the different forms of domestic violence is the deliberate use of power and control to intimidate, manipulate, or harm another person.

Causes of domestic violence

By understanding what contributes to domestic violence, you can recognize the warning signs of abuse and work toward prevention. While there’s no single cause, risk factors include:

  • History of experiencing or witnessing abuse in childhood
  • Lack of nonviolent social problem-solving skills
  • Substance abuse
  • Jealousy or possessiveness
  • Mental health challenges
  • Need for power or control over others
  • Poor impulse control and anger management issues
  • Having few friends and being isolated from others
  • Witnessing violence between parents as a child
  • Rapid relationship progression or early cohabitation

It’s crucial to remember that having risk factors doesn’t excuse abusive behavior. Many people face these challenges without becoming abusive, and conversely, abuse can occur in relationships without these risk factors.

What is considered domestic violence?

Domestic violence is not limited to physical harm. Many survivors experience interpersonal trauma in various forms, which may be subtle or hard to recognize. Some examples of domestic violence include:

  • Hitting, slapping, choking, or physical restraint
  • Belittling, shaming, or name-calling
  • Constant criticism or humiliation
  • Monitoring movements, texts, or social media
  • Intimidation and manipulation
  • Withholding money
  • Threats to harm
  • Forced sexual acts or coercion
  • Keeping someone away from friends, family, or other sources of support

The impact of domestic violence

Survivors of domestic abuse and violence may face a combination of emotional, mental, physical, and social effects. Here are some of the ways domestic abuse affects individuals:

  • Depression or anxiety
  • Low self-esteem or self-blame
  • Trauma or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Dissociation
  • Substance abuse
  • Difficulty trusting others
  • Fear of forming new relationships
  • Sleep disturbances and fatigue
  • Difficulty holding a job or continuing education
  • Risk of repeating the cycle of abuse in future relationships

These effects can persist for long after the abuse has ended. Domestic violence therapy and mental health support are so important for healing.

Resources for domestic abuse and violence

No one should face domestic violence alone. There are many resources and mental health professionals trained to offer support, guidance, and safety planning. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse trauma, help is available:

Healing is possible, and reaching out is a powerful first step.

Takeaway

Experiencing domestic abuse, intimate partner violence, or spousal abuse can leave mental scars, but it doesn’t define who you are. The effects of domestic violence are real, but so is the hope for healing.

Whether you’re living with the aftermath of domestic abuse trauma or trying to support someone else, recovery is possible. Therapy and support can be part of the journey forward.

If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available. You deserve to feel safe, supported, and empowered.