What does this measure?

The number of reports of domestic violence per 10,000 residents.

Why is this important?

Domestic violence has unique negative effects on victims and families. Domestic violence can cause serious and permanent emotional and psychological damage, which hurts one’s quality of life and ability to contribute to society and perform at work.

How is the Greater Capital Region performing?

In 2007, there were 88 reports of domestic violence per 10,000 residents in the Greater Capital Region, higher than the rate for the state (excluding New York City) of 54. The region’s rate remained fairly constant over the period except for an increase in 2005. Schenectady County had the highest rate of reported domestic violence each year since 2000, with 202 reported cases per 10,000 residents in 2007. Albany County experienced a 48% decline in reported domestic violence.

Notes about the data

As a rule, domestic violence tends to be underreported, and there are many inconsistencies in the data that are reported. Reporting may also be influenced by factors such as public education, outreach efforts and media publicity. National data are not available because of inconsistent definitions and reporting of domestic violence. State totals do not include New York City data because the city stopped reporting after 2001.