Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used to establish control over an intimate partner. Some abusive actions may cause physical injury and some are criminal, but all are psychologically damaging to the victim. 

While it often appears that abusers are out of control, they are not. Many abusive behaviors are specifically used to enforce rules, or for retaliation, or punishment. 

Abusive behaviors could include anger, intimidation, manipulation, jealousy, threats, and violence.

Often, these behaviors are used to accomplish specific goals such as: 

• Forcing the victim into servitude. 
• Coercing the victim into catering to them emotionally, physically or sexually. 
• Manipulating the victim into giving up their education, job, family, friends, money or other resources. 
• Getting away with behavior such as cheating, alcohol or drug use, and the abusive behaviors themselves. 
• Trapping the victim in the relationship. 

Millions of people just like you are also dealing with violence at home. Although it is usually hidden, this kind of abuse is very common and affects people from many different walks of life - school teachers, celebrities, bankers, carpenters, bus drivers, etc. 

Nothing you say or do causes an abusive person to act violently toward you, and it is impossible for you to prevent attacks by altering your behavior. Some think using violence is the best way to solve problems, and that it's okay to hit a partner. But no one has the right to physically harm you. Violent behavior is against the law. 

Domestic violence will not go away on its own. It tends to get worse and become more frequent with time, and is harmful to your children as well.