Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors used to maintain power and control over an intimate partner. The violence can take the form of physical, emotional, sexual and economic abuse. Often times, the violent partner uses a combination of these behaviors to maintain control.
Domestic violence can happen to anyone. It can affect any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender. It applies to couples who are married, living together, or dating. It affects all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.
So What Does Abuse Look Like?
It’s not always easy to tell if a relationship will become abusive. Many times, abusive partners can seem perfect and charming early on in the relationship. Possessive and controlling behaviors don’t always appear overnight – they can emerge and intensify as the relationship grows.
Abusive people typically use a pattern of behaviors to maintain power and control over an intimate partner or family member. These behaviors can include physical harm, cause fear, prevent someone from doing what they wish, or force a person to behave in ways they do not want. The different forms of abuse that are often used include:
- Physical Abuse
- Emotional Abuse
- Sexual Abuse
- Financial Abuse
It’s important to understand that domestic violence doesn’t look the same in every relationship because every relationship is different. The one common factor is that the abuser does many different things to maintain more power and control over another person.
If you have concerns about a relationship with an intimate partner or a family member, please call us. Our advocates are available 24/7 to talk with you about what you’re experiencing. Just call 1.800.382.5603.