Full Breakdown
New Survey Highlights Widespread Gender-Based Violence in the United States
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Findings of the Violence Experiences Survey
Researchers from Tulane University and the University of California, San Diego released a national assessment of intimate partner and sexual violence. The study, administered by NORC at the University of Chicago among a representative sample of 2,720 adults last fall, found that nearly two-thirds of women reported experiencing intimate partner violence, and 68 % reported some form of sexual violence, including verbal or online harassment, forced sex, or physically aggressive sexual behavior. Among trans and gender-nonconforming respondents, 84 % reported intimate partner violence and 85 % reported sexual violence over their lifetimes. Only 9 % of all respondents said they had perpetrated sexual or intimate partner violence (14 % of men and 5 % of women), though the survey notes self-reporting may underestimate actual rates.
Interpretation and Policy Recommendations
Anita Raj, executive director of the Newcomb Institute at Tulane University and co-leader of the research, described the results as one of the most expansive assessments of violence in the United States. Raj urged legislators to fund prevention programs and to elevate the voices of the majority of men who are not violent.
Funding Challenges and Criticisms
Advocates cited several policy and funding setbacks that may hinder prevention efforts. They pointed to President Donald Trump’s executive order limiting gender definitions as a factor that chilled support for LGBTQ+ survivor services. They also highlighted Department of Justice funding requirements that forced many organizations to remove resources, even though courts have paused those rules.
Ongoing Support Services
Despite budgetary pressures, domestic-violence hotlines remain operational nationwide. The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers confidential, 24/7 assistance at 1-800-799-7233, and the Network/La Red provides a dedicated 24/7 crisis line for LGBTQ+ individuals at 617-742-4911.