Ending Violence Through Primary Prevention

Course overview

Course Description: This course introduces participants to the principles of primary prevention as a strategy for ending intimate partner violence (IPV). Based on the framework presented in 'Ending Violence through Primary Prevention,' the course explores root causes of violence, including systems of oppression such as sexism, racism, homophobia, and classism. Participants will examine the Social Ecological Model and the Spectrum of Prevention, and learn how multi-level strategies can shift norms, policies, and community conditions to prevent violence before it begins. The course emphasizes collaborative, community-driven approaches that promote equality, respect, and healthy relationships. This course is appropriate for intermediate and advanced-level practitioners who wish to learn more about preventing intimate partner violence. It is also a good resource for licensed therapists who need IPV continuing education for license renewal. Authors: Prevention Institute Learning Objectives: This course will provide a professional with detailed information about the prevention of intimate partner violence. Specifically, the practitioner will: Define primary prevention and explain how it differs from awareness and risk reduction approaches. Describe the Social Ecological Model and identify at least two prevention strategies at different levels. Identify root causes of intimate partner violence and explain how the Spectrum of Prevention supports long-term social change. Citation: Prevention Institute, (nd) Ending Violence through Primary Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.preventioninstitute.org/ on 2/26/2026.