Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior used to establish power and control over another person through fear and intimidation. This behavior often, but not always, includes the threat or use of violence. Domestic violence can include physical, emotional, psychological, economic, and/or sexual abuse. Abusers use threats, intimidation, isolation, and other behaviors to gain and maintain power over their victims.
WHO DOES DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AFFECT?
Domestic violence crosses all races, cultures, religions, ages, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic groups.
Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of income, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or religion. One in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. Domestic violence occurs in same-sex relationships, and men can be victims as well. The effects of domestic violence are far reaching. From schools and neighborhoods to businesses and communities, its impact and costs are felt by all of us.
HOW DO I KNOW IF SOMEONE I CARE ABOUT IS A VICTIM OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?
• She/He seems threatened or frightened when her/his partner is angry.
• She/He worries that her/his partner will be jealous or suspicious.
• Her/His partner makes all or most of the decisions.
• Her/His partner criticizes her/him frequently.
• She/He apologizes frequently for her/his partner’s behavior.
• She/He is withdrawn from friends and family; she/he seems in a hurry to get home.
• Her/His partner takes a strong interest in weapons.
• Her/His partner breaks things, throws things, or intimidates her/him.
• She/He may have to quit her/his job.
• She/He or her/his partner grew up in a violent family.