Domestic Violence
In a relationship, partners talk to each other when an issue arises. A partner should not respond to problems with violence. Everyone deserves to be in a healthy and loving relationship free of abusive behavior.
Domestic violence involves an intentional pattern of physical, emotional, economic, and other tactics used to instill fear and to coerce intimate partners to act against their own will or best interests.
In the United States, one in four women and one in seven men have experienced some form of severe violence from an intimate partner.
Domestic violence survivors may feel like they did something wrong to cause the abuse. It is never appropriate for someone to be violent against another person. This violence is based on gaining power and control.
Domestic violence is abusive behavior that includes several forms of violence. Read an overview of these tactics.
National Child Abuse Hotline
1.800.422.4453
www.childhelp.org
National Domestic Violence Hotline
1.800.799.7233
www.thehotline.org
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network
1.800.656.4673
www.rainn.org
National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline
1.866.331.9474
www.loveisrespect.org
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1.800.273.8255
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Resources are available if you or someone you know needs help.
Each domestic violence survivor responds differently to abuse. They can also face similar effects in its aftermath.
Signs of domestic violence can be difficult to recognize because of its diverse forms. View a list to help identify abuse.
Domestic violence is widespread. The percentages of intimate partners facing severe violence and death are alarming.