Intimate partner abuse/domestic violence happens in all communities, and CU Boulder is not exempt. The way we respond matters鈥攐ur response can influence the survivor鈥檚 decision to seek out further help and can affect their healing process.

As part of Domestic Violence/Intimate Partner Abuse Awareness Month this October, the聽Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)聽has provided tips and information on how to support survivors.

Recognize

Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner abuse, is best understood as a pattern of abusive behaviors including physical, sexual and psychological abuse, as well as economic coercion. These behaviors are used by one intimate partner against another to gain, maintain or regain power and control in the relationship.

Group of people walk arm in armTheir partner may:

  • Control what their partner does, who they see and talk to.
  • Want to make all the decisions.
  • Manipulate with insults, guilt and/or threats to harm themselves or others.
  • Prevent their partner from working, studying or socializing.
  • Keep close track of where and what their partner is doing at all times.
  • Be physically, verbally, emotionally and/or sexually abusive.

Domestic violence can happen to anyone, regardless of sex, age, race, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation.

Respond

Here are a few ways you can support a friend who may have an abusive partner:

  • Listen and check in on safety. Your friend may have mixed emotions about their relationship.
  • Talk with your friend about what you are observing.
  • Give specific examples:
    • 鈥淚鈥檓 afraid for your safety鈥� and 鈥測ou do not deserve to be treated that way.鈥�
    • 鈥淚鈥檓 concerned when I see your partner control who you can go out with.鈥�
  • Inform your friend they have rights and options.
  • Support your friend in doing what they decide is best for them.

Reach out

If you or someone you know has been impacted by domestic violence/intimate partner abuse,聽reach out to OVA聽for free and confidential counseling, support and advocacy. Drop-in hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday鈥揊riday in C4C N352, or call 303-492-8855.聽After-hours contact information聽can be found on OVA鈥檚 website.

Find more information online at the聽"Get Help" page, and follow the聽聽for events on support and awareness during October.

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