What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in an intimate partner, dating or family relationship, where the abuser exerts power and control over the victim.

Domestic violence can be mental, physical, economic or sexual in nature. Incidents are rarely isolated, and usually escalate in frequency and severity. Domestic violence can culminate in serious physical injury or death.

Anyone can be a victim of domestic violence, regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, faith or class.