Definition:
Domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic abuse, or relationship abuse) is a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship. The abuser can use emotional, psychological, sexual, and/or physical force to gain control over a partner. Spouses, parents, stepparents, children, siblings, elderly relatives, and intimate partners may all be targets of domestic violence. Domestic Violence is often comorbid with substance use disorders.
Violent acts include, but are not limited to:
- Verbal, emotional, and physical intimidation
- Destruction of the victim’s possessions
- Maiming or killing pets
- Threats
- Forced sex
- Slapping
- Punching
- Kicking
- Choking
- Burning
- Biting
- Stabbing
- Shooting
- Murder
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