VHA Social Work

Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP) - VETERANS & PARTNERS

High Risk behaviors may be signs of serious intimate partner violence and place the person at high risk of harm. These behaviors are intentionally hurtful, demeaning, controlling, and/or isolating. In these cases, one partner attempts to make the other feel afraid, feel bad about themselves and their abilities, or feel that they are not free to make their own choices.

Examples:

• Dismissing the partner’s experience or boundaries.
• Blaming the partner who is experiencing harm.
• Calling the partner names, putting them down, or insulting them.
• Threatening the partner, other family members, pets or cherished belongings.
• Harming the partner physically or intentionally intimidating them.
• Preventing the partner from spending time with others.
• Violating the partner’s privacy. Making the partner share personal information including access to internet accounts, medical records, etc.
• Not allowing the partner to make his or her own choices.
• Forcing or coercing the partner to engage in sexual activity.
• Controlling reproductive decisions such as whether to use contraception, engage in safe sex practices or making pregnancy decisions.

If any of these unhealthy or high-risk behaviors are familiar to you, reach out for help.

Consider the following resources:

• Safety Planning Guide (PDF)
• Learn more about what you can do if you are experiencing IPV HERE.

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