Domestic violence is a common but largely hidden issue that affects people from all walks of life—regardless of their age, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, income, or marital status.

Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of behaviors to establish and maintain power and control over a person. These behaviors may be physical, psychological, emotional, spiritual, sexual or economic. The common theme is the intent to intimidate, manipulate or hurt another person. Domestic violence doesn’t look the same in every relationship because every relationship is different. What’s important is to recognize what an unsafe relationship looks like and get help.

 

Signs of an Unhealthy Relationship

Does your partner:

  • Control who you see, where you go, or what you do?
  • Keep you from seeing family and friends?
  • Stop you from getting or keeping a job or attending school?
  • Threaten to “out” you at work or to your family or friends?
  • Control your money and is the only one with access to financial accounts?
  • Intentionally cause property damage and blame you?
  • Prevent you from having your name on a lease, rental agreement or mortgage?
  • Physically abuse you or threaten to?
  • Threaten to harm or take away your children? Are you afraid to leave your children alone with them?
  • Force you to have sex when you don’t want to or to do things sexually that you’re uncomfortable with?

 

Additional Resources