We know that every day, people in our hometowns, the cities we live in, in the United States, and round the world are victims of power-based personal violence. Stories of this type of violence inundate our televisions, phones, and news feeds. Each incident hurts all of us. These acts of violence are like red dots covering a map, much like an epidemic spreading out of control if not stopped.
Other Definitions
Power-Based Personal Violence:
A form of violence that has as a primary motivator the assertion of power, control and/or intimidation in order to harm another. This includes partner violence, sexual assault, stalking, bullying, child abuse, and elder abuse. It includes the use of alcohol or drugs to commit any of these acts. These acts are inclusive of acts committed by strangers, friends, acquaintances, intimates, or other persons. For a list of resources for those affected by power-based personal violence, please see the bottom of the page.
Sexual Violence:
Any sexual contact that lacks consent and/or capacity to give consent. Includes forcible fondling, sexual assault, rape and attempted rape.
Partner Violence:
Physical, sexual or psychological harm, or threat of harm, by a current or former partner. Intimate Partner Violence is also known as dating violence, domestic violence, intimate partner abuse, relationship violence, etc.
Stalking:
Course of conduct targeted at an individual or group that would cause a reasonable person to feel afraid. Examples include following, Facebooking, texting, calling, unwanted letters, gifts, etc.
