Over 3.9 million Californians disclose experiencing sexual or physical abuse at the hands of their partner or significant other

Intimate partner violence is startlingly common in California, with roughly 4 million adults disclosing experiences of physical or sexual abuse at the hands of a spouse or companion, as per a recent report by UCLA's Center for Health Policy Research.

, and Administrator

2025 September 13 . 2:30 PM

1 min read

Over 3.5 million Californians disclose experiencing sexual or physical violence at the hands of a... — Over 3.5 million Californians disclose experiencing sexual or physical violence at the hands of a partner or significant other

Over 3.9 million Californians disclose experiencing sexual or physical abuse at the hands of their partner or significant other

In California, a concerning trend of increased intimate partner violence (IPV) has been reported, particularly among Latinos and certain demographic groups such as divorced and widowed individuals, according to a recent policy brief released by the Public Health Institute (PHI).

The policy brief, which can be found on Twitter, highlights the persisting gender disparity in IPV rates, with women being disproportionately affected. The research, conducted in part by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research, reveals that nearly four million California adults are victims of IPV.

The California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) and the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research's findings suggest that divorced and widowed Californians are at a higher risk of IPV. The PHI's policy brief further emphasizes that Asians in California have the lowest rates of IPV.

The policy brief also provides details on how to address IPV in California. The Blue Shield of California Foundation, in partnership with the PHI, is taking steps to combat this issue. The Blue Shield of California Foundation, as stated in the policy brief, is committed to addressing IPV in California.

For more information on the policy brief, visit the UCLA Newsroom or follow the PHI on Twitter. The policy brief serves as a call to action for Californians to address this pressing issue and work towards a safer and more equitable future for all.