A startling new national study reveals that physical and sexual violence are pervasive in the United States, with more than half of adults experiencing physical violence and nearly half experiencing sexual violence in their lifetime. The study, titled Violence in America: Findings from the 2025 United States Violence Experiences Survey (USVEX), was led by researchers from Tulane University’s Newcomb Institute and the University of California, San Diego.
Key Findings from the USVEX Study
The USVEX survey, administered by NORC at the University of Chicago, collected data from 2,720 adults across all 50 states between October and December 2025. The results paint a grim picture of violence exposure:
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| Type of Violence | Lifetime Prevalence | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Violence | 52% | Includes incidents involving a gun or knife; equal rates among men and women |
| Sexual Violence | Nearly 50% | Includes a range of unwanted sexual experiences |
| Intimate Partner Violence | Significant portion | Often co-occurs with other forms of violence |
These figures highlight that violence is not a rare occurrence but a widespread public health issue affecting millions of Americans.
Beyond Crime Reports: The True Scope of Violence
Anita Raj, executive director of the Newcomb Institute and co-author of the study, emphasized that official crime reports capture only a fraction of violence. “That’s a fraction of people who are affected,” Raj told The Guardian. “We also don’t want to find out about it at that point because if we’re finding out at that point, the risk for fatality has now gone up.” The study underscores the need for broader assessments that include behavioral health, economic hardship, neighborhood safety, and substance use.
Intersections with Behavioral Health and Economic Hardship
The research also explored how violence intersects with other factors. Victims often face behavioral health challenges, economic instability, and unsafe neighborhoods, creating cycles of vulnerability. Understanding these connections is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies.
- Physical violence affects 52% of adults, with equal rates among men and women.
- Sexual violence impacts nearly half of all adults, often going unreported.
- Intimate partner violence is a significant subset, frequently linked to other forms of violence.
- Violence is strongly associated with behavioral health issues, economic hardship, and substance use.
Implications for Policy and Public Health
The findings call for a paradigm shift in how violence is measured and addressed. Rather than relying solely on crime statistics, policymakers and health officials must consider the broader social determinants that contribute to violence. Increased funding for mental health services, economic support programs, and community safety initiatives could help mitigate the impact.
FAQ
What is the USVEX study?
The USVEX study is a nationally representative survey conducted by Tulane University’s Newcomb Institute and UC San Diego, examining lifetime experiences of physical, sexual, and intimate partner violence among US adults.
How common is physical violence in the US?
According to the study, 52% of US adults have experienced physical violence in their lifetime, with equal rates among men and women.
Why are crime reports insufficient?
Crime reports only capture a fraction of violence incidents, often after severe harm has occurred. Surveys like USVEX provide a more comprehensive understanding of prevalence and risk factors.
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