Domestic violence (also referred to as intimate partner violence (IPV), dating 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.
Domestic violence doesn’t discriminate. People of any race, age, gender, sexuality, religion, education level, or economic status can be a victim — or perpetrator — of domestic violence. That includes behaviors that physically harm, intimidate, manipulate or control a partner, or otherwise force them to behave in ways they don’t want to, including through physical violence, threats, emotional abuse, or financial control.
Physical abuse: this is the actual act or threat of an act that will cause bodily harm including but not limited to pushing, pinching, hitting, kicking, choking, burning, reckless driving, blocking exits, throwing objects and attacking with objects/weapons.
Emotional abuse: Use of actions and words that cause fear. Examples – isolating from others, insulting, demeaning, terrorizing, ignoring or undermining partner’s beliefs, downplaying or mocking partner’s accomplishments or intelligence, threatening to harm oneself if one partner does not comply with demands, instilling guilt and shame in partner, denying the abuse and gas lighting.
Economic /financial abuse: Acts that result in financial control of another individual. Examples – limited or no access to money, not allowing the partner to work, stealing from the victim, withholding the victim’s paycheck or funds, instilling fear in partner about their expenses.
Stalking: Unwanted and obsessive attention by an individual or group towards another person. Example – following in a vehicle, standing outside of work, or home, repeatedly calling one’s home or cell.
Cyberstalking: the use of the Internet or other electronic means to stalk or harass an individual. Example: sending harassing emails or texts, stalking via social websites; tracking individuals online footprints to use for control at a later time, etc
Find your Voice. We can Help. For anonymous confidential help call or text the Awaaz Helpline – 210-446-6464
