What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence is any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) that is perpetrated by one person against another, usually in an intimate relationship or family setting. Abuse includes behaviours where there is a misuse of power and control.

Whatever form it takes, domestic violence is rarely a one-off incident, and should instead be seen as a pattern of abuse and controlling behaviour through which the abuser seeks power over the victim.

Sometimes a family can join together in abusing a victim, or sometimes a victim can be subject to violence by different family members. Sometimes an older child can take on the role of the abuser and physically hurt the parent who is the victim.

While most domestic violence is directed by men against women, it occurs in some lesbian and gay relationships, and by women against men regardless of age,race, wealth and geography.

At least one in four women will experience domestic violence during their lifetime regardless of ethnic origin or socio-economic background.

Domestic violence is often hidden and should not be ignored, the Support groups and Organisations link should provide you useful information wheather you are a 'victim', friend  or family member who is seeking more information or help.

This was updated on 2 January 2009