Domestic violence is an umbrella term that encompasses both intimate partner violence (IPV) and family violence.
Intimate partner violence (IPV), also referred to as dating abuse or relationship abuse, involves a pattern of behaviors in which one partner seeks to exert power and control over the other within a current or former intimate relationship. These behaviors may include physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, or financial abuse, as well as stalking and coercive control.
Family violence, while also involving patterns of abuse and control, occurs between family members, through blood or marriage, who are not intimate partners.
Domestic Violence impacts individuals regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, education level, or economic status, making anyone capable of being a victim or a perpetrator. Such behaviors can include physical harm, intimidation, manipulation, and coercion, or forcing a person to act against their will. This abuse can manifest as physical violence, threats, emotional manipulation, or financial control.
Warning signs of abusive behavior in a partner:
- Criticizing you by saying you never do anything right.
- Exhibiting extreme jealousy over your friendships or time spent apart. This includes sending excessive text messages and voicemails when you are not with them.
- Discouraging or preventing you from spending time with friends, family, or peers.
- Insulting or belittling you, especially in front of others
. - Undermining your ability to make decisions about your work or education.
- Controlling household finances without consultation, such as taking your money or refusing to cover necessary expenses.
- Pressuring you into sexual activity you’re uncomfortable with.
- Coercing you to use drugs or alcohol.
- Intimidating you with threatening looks or actions.
- Criticizing your parenting or threatening to harm or take away your children or pets.
- Using weapons like guns, knives, or bats to intimidate you.
- Damaging your personal belongings or property.