What Is Domestic Violence?


Definitions of Domestic Violence
"Domestic violence is defined is a pattern of coercive control that one person exercises over another in an intimate relationship.  This control is established through fear, the use of physical and emotional violence and or other forms of abuse.  Relationships involving domestic violence may differ in terms of severity, but control is the primary goal."  (Department of Children and Families definition)

"We further suggest that domestic violence is constituted by the intent of perpetrator, the effect on the victim and the patterned or repetitive nature of the behavior."  (Simmons School of Social Work on-line training definition)

"In intimate terrorism relationships, the perpetrator engages in a general pattern of coercion and control over his partner – over her finances, social contacts, everyday activities, employment, parenting practices, even the clothes she wears – and uses violence as one means to that end.  Even non-violent control tactics take on a violent meaning through their implicit connection with potential physical harm.  This pattern creates a climate of fear that is common to other forms of terrorism as well.  This dynamic results in serious physical and emotional harm."  (Goodman and Epstein, Listening to Battered Women, 2008)

Domestic Violence Facts
  • One in every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime
  • Domestic violence affects 25% of all American families and can have a devastating impact on both survivors and children.
  • Domestic violence accounts for as many as 35% of all hospital emergency department visits by women.
  • 80% of women who are stalked by a former husband are physically assaulted by that partner.  30% are sexually assaulted by that partner.
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