U.S. Domestic Violence Data

CDC reports 34% of U.S. women and 17% of men have experienced intimate partner violence in their lifetime.

“The CDC defines intimate partner violence as physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, or psychological aggression committed by a current or former romantic partner.”

Texas Family Violence Offenses

Texas recorded 240,925 family violence offenses involving 241,015 victims in 2025.

2024 Texas Fatalities

161 Texans were killed by intimate partners in 2024, with 71% using firearms.

“The Texas Council on Family Violence found that 71 percent of Texans killed by intimate partners in 2024 were killed with a firearm.”

Victim Age Patterns

Victims range from 17 to 70 years old, with women aged 30-39 and men aged 30-49 most affected.

Teen Dating Violence

1 in 12 high school students experience physical dating violence and 1 in 10 experience sexual dating violence.

“The CDC's 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey shows 1 in 12 U.S. high school students experience physical dating violence.”

Warning Signs of Abuse

Extreme jealousy, isolation, controlling finances, and threats to children or pets are key indicators of abuse.

“The National Domestic Violence Hotline identifies extreme jealousy, isolation, controlling finances, and threats to children or pets as warning signs.”

Digital Control Risks

Abusers monitor victims through phones, GPS, and online accounts without their knowledge.

“The National Domestic Violence Hotline warns that computer and cellphone activity can be monitored without the user knowing.”

Why Victims Stay

Financial dependence, shared children, and fear of losing custody often prevent leaving abusive partners.

“Victims may depend financially on an abusive partner, share children, or fear losing custody if they leave.”

Safety Planning

Personalized safety plans include identifying safe areas, exits, and trusted contacts for victims.

“A safety plan is a personalized strategy for increasing safety while experiencing abuse, preparing to leave, or after leaving.”

Helping a Victim

Friends should focus on safety, listen without judgment, and help develop a safety plan rather than confronting the abuser.

“The National Domestic Violence Hotline encourages friends to focus first on safety, listen without judgment, and help the survivor think through options.”

Children as Victims

Children witness violence and experience trauma without physical assault, increasing health risks later in life.

“The CDC classifies witnessing intimate partner violence as an adverse childhood experience that can affect health later in life.”

Immediate Help Resources

Call 9-1-1 for immediate danger or text START to 88788 for 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline support.

“The National Domestic Violence Hotline operates 24 hours a day at 800-799-SAFE (7233).”