Facts & Stats

Behind every sexual and domestic violence statistic is the story of a woman, child, or man who is affected by sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking.

Statistics are powerful tools in shaping policy, setting priorities, and informing public understanding of these issues. We’re mindful that there are limitations that make it difficult to collect accurate and comprehensive statistics. For instance, data drawn from disclosure rates in surveys and reporting rates to formal systems such as law enforcement are often lower than the actual rates due to the tendency to under-report. While no one piece of data tells the whole story, we look at a wide combination of sources that validates how pervasive and prevalent the problems of sexual assault and domestic violence are both here in Massachusetts and around the world.

In addition to a wide range of formal data sources, JDI listens closely to what we learn from our member programs whose work in their local communities is informed by experience of victims and survivors.

JDI put together this section to highlight data, studies, and facts specific to Massachusetts plus provide access to key national statistics and research on sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking.

• Get a Massachusetts Snapshot with a brief overview of incidence data, download our series of Massachusetts Factsheets, and see our Massachusetts Domestic Violence Homicide documentation including annual tracking data and case narratives.

• View a one-day perspective of the help and support provided by domestic violence programs here in Massachusetts and around the country as captured by the  NNEDV Domestic Violence Census.

• Glance at our Quick National Facts About Sexual and Domestic Violence.

• Check out these key research papers and studies and trusted data sources.

Questions? If you can’t find what you’re looking for here or within the sources we suggest, contact us at research@janedoe.org.