Intimate Partner Violence
What is intimate partner violence?
Intimate partner violence (IPV), also known as domestic abuse or domestic violence, is any abuse or aggression that occurs within a relationship, including marriage, common-law or dating relationships. IPV affects millions of people in Canada each year, and can occur regardless of the sexual orientation or gender of the partners.
Intimate partner violence takes many forms, including:
Physical: The use of physical force with the intention of causing bodily harm to the partner such as hitting, kicking, pushing, etc.
Emotional & Psychological: The use of verbal and non-verbal communication with the intention to harm the partner mentally or emotionally, while also exerting control over them. This can come in many forms, but some examples include name calling, insulting, intimidation, shaming, humiliating, controlling and stalking.
Financial: The use, and ongoing maintenance, of power and control over the partner’s financial freedom. This includes having sole access to their partner’s financial assets, damaging a partner’s credit score, inflicting harm or injury that would prevent the person from attending work, etc.
Sexual: The use of force and/or intimidation to participate in sexual acts without consent. This also includes sexually degrading and belittling comments towards the partner.
Technological: The use of technology to inflict harm on their partner via recording devices and/or tracking their location with the intention of intimating, humiliating, scaring or controlling the partner.
Who does it affect?
Intimate partner violence can impact anyone regardless of race, gender, age, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. It is known, however, to exceedingly impact women and girls, Indigenous women, and members of the LGBTQ2S+ community.
The World Health Organization has declared IPV a global public health concern, with its lasting impact on one’s health and socioeconomic well being. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has made it more difficult for those experiencing IPV to access resources, including education on the matter, as many individuals may not even realize their partner’s behavior is a form of abuse.
What help is available for individuals who experience IPV?
There are many resources within the community. If you or anyone you know is experiencing intimate partner violence - know that you are not alone. If you fear for your safety, call 911.
You may also wish to seek support from organizations such as:
Sudbury and Area Victim Services at 705-522-6970
Centre Victoria Pour Femmes at 705-670-2517
YWCA Genevra House at 705-674-2210
Helping Survivors at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They can be reached toll free at 1-866-863-7868.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Health Sciences North Crisis Intervention Program at 705-523-7100.
If you have any further questions, or would like to discuss your concerns or experiences, contact Mitchell Counselling & Psychotherapy Services. We have a dedicated team of professionals who are willing to provide support, guidance and resources.