On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men. Furthermore,1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner sexual violence, and/or intimate partner stalking which results in injury, fearfulness, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Within the Black community, approximately 53.8% of Black women and 56.1% of Black men have experienced psychological aggression by an intimate partner within their lifetimes. By intentionally denying Black people access to economic opportunities such as the ability to build intergenerational wealth, healthcare, education, and a sense of safety from governmental systems, racist policies increase the prevalence of risk factors for domestic violence. These systems create numerous barriers for survivors seeking safety. In the fourth episode of Reflections in Color : Celebrating Journeys in Wellness, we meet Princess Agbobock, Domestic Violence Survivor. In this episode we discuss Princess’s personal history within intimate partner violence to 1) address myths and misconceptions about IPV, 2) identify characteristics and behaviors of an abusive partner, 3) strategies for survivors seeking safety, and 4) how to support a loved one within an abusive relationship.

In Reflection in Color : Celebrating Journeys to Wellness we highlight diverse experiences of mental and emotional distress within the wellness spectrum and bring awareness to real-life challenges. Everyday people share personal stories, reflections, and understanding of their wellness journeys including lessons learned. Most importantly, we identify culture specific, relevant self-care strategies and coping skills to maintain emotional and mental wellness.

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