Domestic violence and domestic abuse are patterns of behavior that establish power and control over an intimate partner through fear and intimidation. It often begins with isolation, jealousy, threats or name-calling and may include emotional, sexual or verbal abuse. It can progress to physical violence like pushing, hitting and kicking. And, it may escalate and results in serious injuries, hospitalization and even death.
Abuse crosses all barriers of age, income, culture, religion, education and race. Domestic violence between partners happens in all kinds of relationships - husbands and wives, dating or live-in partners, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender partners. Anyone can be a domestic violence victim.
