Violence Against Women

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"I have a sense of pride that I survived and started over. I had to give up the outward appearances and realize that this can happen to anyone, no matter who you are." — 60-year-old woman
"I can only hope that by telling my story, someone will realize that they are not alone and support is available." — Registered nurse
"I’m still seeing a counselor … which allows me to see each day as a positive." — 35-year-old woman
"I divorced him not because I didn’t love him, but because I made a choice to be free of his madness." — Supervisor

Source: Kaiser Permanente Silent Witness Display

Violence and abuse affect women from all kinds of backgrounds every day. Sometimes, women are attacked by strangers, but most often they are hurt by people who are close to them, such as a husband or boyfriend. The mistreatment can be physical, like hitting. It can be emotional, like threats or name-calling. And it can be sexual, like forcing you to have sex. Violence and abuse can cause terrible physical and emotional pain. But you are not alone, and you can get help. Keep reading to learn about topics like:

Violence Against Women was reviewed by experts at:

Division of Violence Prevention
National Center for Injury Prevention and Control
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Office of Women’s Health
Maternal and Child Health Bureau
Health Resources and Services Administration

Family Violence Prevention Fund

Content last updated May 18, 2011