Understanding the Link Between Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
Breaking the Cycle of Abuse and Supporting Survivors
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about intimate partner violence and advocating for survivor support. While sexual assault and domestic violence are often discussed separately, they are deeply interconnected. Many survivors of sexual violence experience abuse within intimate relationships, and the trauma of one form of violence can increase vulnerability to another.
At V.O.I.C.E.S. Against Sexual Assault, we recognize that healing from sexual violence often means addressing the broader cycle of abuse. In this blog, we explore the connection between domestic violence and sexual assault, the impact on survivors, and the importance of trauma-informed support in breaking free from abuse.
The Overlap Between Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
Domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence, or IPV) includes physical, emotional, verbal, financial, and sexual abuse within a relationship. Sexual assault is often used as a tool of control in abusive relationships, reinforcing the perpetrator’s power over the survivor.
Key Statistics on the Connection Between Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence:
1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men will experience intimate partner violence in their lifetime.
Nearly half (47%) of women who experience rape are assaulted by a current or former partner.
Only 1 in 5 survivors of intimate partner sexual violence report their abuse to law enforcement.
Many survivors stay in abusive relationships due to fear, financial dependence, or emotional manipulation.
These statistics highlight why it's critical to recognize sexual assault as a part of the larger cycle of domestic violence. Survivors need comprehensive support that addresses both their immediate safety needs and long-term healing.
How Sexual Violence Manifests in Domestic Abuse
Many people think of domestic violence as only physical abuse, but sexual assault is one of the most common and least discussed forms of intimate partner violence. Here are some ways sexual violence can appear in abusive relationships:
Coercion and Pressure – A partner pressuring, guilting, or manipulating a survivor into sex when they do not want to.
Rape or Forced Acts – Any form of non-consensual sexual contact, even in a committed relationship.
Reproductive Coercion – Forcing pregnancy, refusing birth control, or sabotaging contraception to maintain control.
Financial Dependence & Sexual Control – A partner using money, housing, or threats of financial ruin to coerce sex.
Threats of Harm – Using intimidation, blackmail, or threats of violence to force a survivor into compliance.
Many survivors don’t recognize these behaviors as sexual assault because of misconceptions like:
❌ “It’s not rape if we’re in a relationship.”
❌ “I didn’t fight back, so maybe it wasn’t assault.”
❌ “I’ve said no before, but they kept pressuring me—I just gave in.”
💙 The Truth: Consent must be freely given in every sexual encounter. Being in a relationship does not mean automatic consent.
Why Survivors Stay in Abusive Relationships
Leaving an abusive relationship is not as simple as walking away. Many survivors face barriers to leaving, including:
Fear of Retaliation – Abusers often threaten violence, blackmail, or harm if the survivor tries to leave.
Emotional Manipulation & Gaslighting – Abusers convince survivors that the abuse is their fault, leaving them feeling confused and trapped.
Financial Dependence – Many survivors are financially controlled, unable to afford housing, legal help, or child support.
Cultural & Religious Pressures – Some survivors stay due to family expectations, religious beliefs, or community stigma.
Children & Family Ties – Survivors may worry about losing custody, harming their children, or breaking up their family.
💙 If you are a survivor in an abusive relationship, please know: You are not alone, and support is available.
Breaking the Cycle: How Survivors Can Begin Healing
Escaping both domestic violence and sexual trauma requires a strong support system and professional guidance. Survivors can begin the journey to healing by:
1. Seeking Professional Support
Trauma-Informed Therapy – Helps survivors process their trauma in a safe space.
Life Coaching for Empowerment – Supports survivors in building confidence, setting goals, and regaining independence.
Support Groups & Survivor Networks – Provide connection, validation, and encouragement from others with similar experiences.
At V.O.I.C.E.S., we offer therapy and coaching to help survivors reclaim their lives and move forward with strength.
2. Creating a Safety Plan
For survivors who are still in an abusive relationship or planning to leave, a safety plan is essential.
Secure Important Documents – ID, birth certificates, passports, social security cards, bank info.
Identify a Safe Place – A friend’s home, shelter, or organization that can assist you.
Pack an Emergency Bag – Clothing, medication, cash, phone numbers, and a burner phone if needed.
Know Your Resources – National and local hotlines, shelters, and legal aid services.
📞 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233
📞 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 800-656-HOPE
💙 Leaving can be the most dangerous time—trust your instincts and seek help from a professional advocate.
3. Rebuilding Confidence & Self-Worth
Survivors of domestic and sexual violence often struggle with low self-esteem, guilt, and fear of trusting others. Healing involves:
Setting Boundaries – Learning to say NO and recognizing red flags.
Practicing Self-Compassion – Understanding that the abuse was NOT your fault.
Engaging in Holistic Healing – Trauma-informed yoga, mindfulness, and breathwork can help survivors release stored trauma and reconnect with their bodies.
💙 “I am strong. I am healing. I deserve safety and love.”
How You Can Support Survivors
Domestic violence and sexual assault thrive in silence and stigma. We all have a role in breaking the cycle of abuse. Here’s how you can help:
Believe survivors – Your support can be life-changing.
Speak up against victim-blaming and myths.
Educate yourself and others about the warning signs of abuse.
Donate or volunteer with survivor advocacy organizations.
💙 At V.O.I.C.E.S., we are committed to providing trauma-informed support, healing spaces, and resources for survivors.
📞 Need help? Contact us today to learn about our Healing Voices support groups, therapy, and life coaching services.
Final Thought: Survivors Deserve Safety, Healing, and a Future Free from Abuse
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault, know that there is hope. Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone.
💙 You are strong. You are worthy. You deserve to be safe.