Domestic violence is the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, or other abusive behavior as part of a power and control by one intimate partner against another. It includes physical violence, sexual violence, threats, and emotional or psychological abuse. The frequency and severity of domestic violence varies. Physical abuse can cause severe injury and even death. Other forms of abuse include psychological abuse, economic abuse, and stalking.
WHY DOES IT MATTER? Domestic violence is prevalent in every community and affects all people regardless of age, status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality. This violence is often accompanied by emotionally abusive and controlling behavior as part of a much larger, pattern of dominance and control. Domestic violence can result in physical injury, psychological trauma, and even death. The devastating consequences of domestic abuse can cross generations and last a lifetime.