Brain injury professionals inevitably come into contact with survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) and domestic violence (DV). Causing traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a tactic of abuse has been significantly overlooked, putting people at risk for problems right away – and potentially in the long-term.

IPV/DV is a common cause of TBI for women in particular, who constitute the majority of victims. It is important to remember that there also exists an inclusive spectrum of people who may have TBI from domestic or other types of relationship-related violence. This spectrum includes but is not limited to:

• children and teens who are abused in the home;

• men and teens experiencing domestic or dating abuse;

• those who are LGBTQ+;

• women who are pregnant;

• and victims of human trafficking.

Brain injury providers are in a unique position to make a meaningful difference for survivors of IPV/DV by administering opportunities to heal. Assessing all patients or clients for domestic or dating violence may enhance medical assessments and diagnoses. Doors may open further, enabling a provider an opportunity to tailor a rehabilitative plan to the true nature of an injury and to make warm referrals for domestic violence services, and these additions to service provision can be profound for domestic violence survivors with TBI, their families, and the community.