Gender-based violence is not only devastating for survivors of violence and their families, it also carries significant social and economic costs. In some countries, violence against women is estimated to cost them up to 3.7% of their GDP, more than double what most governments spend on education. A characteristic of gender-based violence is that it knows no social or economic boundaries and affects women and girls of all socioeconomic levels: this problem must be addressed in both developing and developed countries. Reducing violence against women and girls requires a community-based, multi-pronged approach, and sustained multi-stakeholder engagement. The most effective initiatives address the underlying risk factors for violence, including social norms regarding gender roles and the acceptability of violence. Gender-based violence often includes control over women's social interactions and autonomy, verbal, emotional, and economic control, and threats of abuse and violence. All of this can have devastating psychological consequences, affecting a woman's confidence, her ability to leave a violent relationship, and her ability to maintain meaningful employment.