Domestic violence is a devastating public health issue that is especially pervasive on college campuses. The United Nations defines domestic violence as “a pattern of behavior in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner.” This abuse can be physical or emotional. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated one in four women and one in ten men have experienced violence or stalking by an intimate partner. Additionally, the American Bar Association reports that 28% of students on college campuses experience dating violence. 

Domestic abuse also often goes unreported. This is particularly problematic during the COVID-19 pandemic, as some students and faculty may be learning from home with an abuser. In fact, COVID-19 has led to a global spike in domestic violence reports. Regardless of the pandemic, some students and faculty members may be struggling with the mental health repercussions of prior abuse. Sexual assault and domestic assault often go hand-in-hand and both necessitate community support and preventative action. The Vector LiveSafe platform can help protect your school from domestic violence and its lasting effects by providing mental health resources, rapid communication with local authorities, and real-time two-way messaging assistance.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which occurs each October, is a valuable time to educate your community about domestic violence. Use this toolkit to increase institutional awareness and to prevent instances of domestic violence in your school.