Domestic and Interpersonal Violence

What is Interpersonal Violence?

Interpersonal violence, often referred to as intimate partner violence, domestic violence or battering, is a pattern of behavior used to establish power and control over another person through fear and intimidation, often including the threat or use of violence. The abuse can take several forms:  physical, emotional, sexual, and economic as well as threats, stalking/surveillance, isolation and intimidation.  Although women are more likely to be targeted, anyone can be a victim of interpersonal violence including those in the GLBTQ communities, men, disabled persons, seniors, and elders.   In Massachusetts, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men have experienced some form of physical or sexual violence or stalking at the hands of an intimate partner.

Warning Signs of Abuse

Are you with someone who…

  • Puts you down?
  • Scares you or loses his/her temper quickly?
  • Hits, pushes, chokes, restrains or physically harms you (or your children or pets) in any way?
  • Pressures you for sex or forces you to have sex?
  • Threatens to disclose personal/sensitive information (LGBTQ status, immigration status)?
  • Is jealous and possessive, checks up on you, or won’t accept breaking up?
  • Prevents you or makes it difficult for you to see family and friends?
  • Takes your money or won’t let you have access to money?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, or if you are worried about someone close to you who may be experiencing abuse, we can help.

How can the Faculty and Staff Assistance Office help?

The Faculty and Staff Assistance Office (FSAO) provides free, confidential services to those affected by interpersonal violence.  Services include:

  • Counseling and advocacy
  • Safety planning for home and work
  • Referrals to community resources
  • Coordination with BUPD, Human Resources, Equal Opportunity Office and other internal and external resources when appropriate

The FSAO is also committed to supporting the university in their response to the needs of employees affected by interpersonal violence through:

  • Training and education
  • Consultation with supervisors, managers, Human Resource consultants, etc.
  • Workgroup interventions

In addition, with the employee’s permission, the FSAO will work in conjunction with the BUPD to plan for the safety of the workgroup when incidents of interpersonal violence affect the workplace.  See Interpersonal Violence in the Workplace for additional information.

Emergency Help

If you are in immediate danger, call the police:

24 Hour Hotlines

Other Resources and Information

See also Interpersonal Violence in the Workplace