Focus on IPV

In this topic, we dive deeper into IPV in heterosexual relationships as this is the most common form of VAW globally.

IPV is defined as behaviours by an intimate partner or ex-partner that cause physical, sexual, or psychological harm, including physical aggression, sexual coercion, psychological abuse, and controlling behaviours. IPV can occur amongst co-habiting and non-co-habiting intimate partners and often physical, sexual, and emotional abuse co-occur. Some other terms used to describe IPV include domestic violence, spousal abuse, wife beating, and dating violence.

IPV is a pattern of abusive behaviour over time. It often occurs as a result of habitual patterns of interaction which lead to a moment when the man exerts his power through one or more forms of violence against his female partner.

Watch the video to find out more about IPV in heterosexual relationships.

Data Bonus Video

Have you ever asked yourself: What is the violence data that I’m looking at? How can I interpret it appropriately? Watch this BONUS VIDEO to find out more.

Featured resources

• Finding Good Data, Prevention Collaborative (2021)
• WHO Multi-Country Study on Women’s Health and Domestic Violence Against Women, World Health Organization (2005)
• Violence Against Women Prevalence Estimates, 2018, World Health Organization (2021)
• WHO Global Database on Prevalence of Violence against Women, World Health Organization (2021)

Illustrative data sources

• Demographic and Health Surveys (by country or indicator)
• World Bank Gender Data Portal (by country or indicator)
• UNFPA Dashboard (by country)
• Violence Against Children Surveys (reports and data request)