ABSTRACT
Intimate partner violence is a global women's health problem. Studies in 35 countries have found that between 25% and 50% of all women have been victims of partner violence (Heise, Pitanguy, & Germaine, 1993). Thus, physical and sexual abuse by an intimate partner affects millions, transcending race and culture in its choice of victims (Coley & Beckett, 1988; Koss, Goodman, et al., 1994; Lockhart, 1991). This type of violence is not limited by socioeconomic status nor region of the world (Heise et al., 1993; M.A.Straus & Gelles, 1990). It does not discriminate based on sexual orientation (Renzetti, 1992). Although intimate partner violence occurs without prejudice, crossing barriers within society and throughout the world, creating similar rates and profiles of psychological and physical impacts (Heise et al., 1993), nevertheless gender and culture must frame the understanding of this potentially fatal health problem.
