What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic Violence - is a pattern of psychological abuse, threats, intimidation, isolation or economic coercion used by one person to exert power and control over another person in the context of a dating, family or household relationship.

Some people think domestic violence is a private family problem.

It is not.

Domestic Violence is a crime.

Forms of Abuse

Emotional Abuse: Harms a person's self-esteem or causes shame. Examples include:

Repeated lies and broken promises
Withholding affection - giving the "silent treatment"
Extreme jealousy that keeps a partner away from friends, relatives, or interests.
Insults and put-downs
Threats against a person's safety
Controlling a person's every move - how they dress, what to eat, where they go, etc.

Physical Abuse: Cause physical pain or injury. Examples include:

Punching, kicking, or slapping
Shaking, pushing or grabbing hard enough to cause discomfort
Attacking with a knife, gun or other weapon
Any physical act that is unwanted or hurtful - even tickling or hugging, if it is unwanted.

Sexual Abuse: Is any kind of unwanted sexual advance or contact. It can include everything from unwelcomed sexual comments, kissing, and/or even intercourse. Forced sexual intercourse between two people who know each other is called "date rape". It is a common and serious problem.

Mission Statement

What is Domestic Violence?

It is not.

Domestic Violence is a crime.

Forms of Abuse