Which of the following best describes the forms of abuse included in IPV?

• A. Physical abuse only
• B. Emotional abuse only
• C. Physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse
• D. Economic abuse only

Answer: (C)

Intimate partner violence involves a range of abusive behaviors that go beyond physical harm. Recognizing multiple forms is essential because they each contribute to control and harm in different ways and often occur together. Physical abuse includes hitting or pushing. Emotional or psychological abuse involves threats, belittling, manipulation, and isolation that erode self‑esteem and autonomy. Sexual abuse encompasses coercion or forced sexual acts and sexual exploitation. Financial (economic) abuse covers controlling access to money, preventing work, withholding funds, or sabotaging resources, which can trap someone in the relationship. Because these abuses can co‑occur and intensify risk, describing IPV as including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse best captures the full scope of what people may experience.