About Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence Is Not an Illness - It Is a Choice

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors, used by one individual intended to exert power and control over another individual, in the context of an intimate relationship.

Behaviors

Behaviors may include:

• Economic/Financial Control
• Isolation from Friends and Family
• Physical Violence
• Sexual Coercion/Abuse
• Threats/Intimidation
• Using Children
• Verbal/Emotional Abuse

Domestic Violence Does Not Discriminate

A victim or perpetrator can be of any:

• Age
• Education Levels
• Gender
• Race
• Religion
• Sexual Orientation
• Socioeconomic Background

It can happen to people who are married, living together or who are dating. Unfortunately, many people who believe abuse is ‘normal’, have been exposed to violence in their past, as

• children growing up in an abusive household
• adults in previous unhealthy relationships

Forms of Domestic Violence

Forms of domestic violence can include criminal (physical assault, stalking) or non-criminal (verbal, emotional, financial control, isolation). Criminal acts and those who commit these acts can be prosecuted, and held accountable for their actions, which may provide incentive and opportunity for behavioral change.