Domestic Violence: Is the mistreatment of a man or women by his/ her intimate partner. It can be physical abuse, which may involve pushing, slapping, punching, kicking, using an object or weapon, or any other use of force that causes pain or injury. Abuse can also be emotional or psychological. Emotional abuse can include threats of harm to his/her partner, family members, friends, pets or possessions; deprivation of money; withholding affection; harassment at work or at home; insults or other verbal abuse; or any pattern of behavior that causes emotional pain. Domestic Violence is one person exercising control over another in order to dominate and get their way. Here are some facts about domestic violence: • Every 15 seconds a woman is physically abused by her partner in the U.S. • Domestic Violence is the leading cause of injury to women in the U.S. • 85% of domestic violence victims are women. • One in every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. • Domestic Violence does not discriminate. It occurs across all sectors of society, in all social, economic, racial and religious backgrounds. RED FLAGS :
Pressures you to move fast in a relationship or pushes for immediate commitment.
Has been abusive in past relationships. Believes in stereotyped gender roles and male supremacy, and is domineering.
Is very jealous and possessive. Isolates you from your friends and family and may try to persuade you not to have a job.
Has two sides to his or her personality—others see your partner as a good person, but behind closed doors, he or she is angry and aggressive toward you.
Experiences most emotions in the form of anger and has difficulty conveying other emotions.
Has a violent temper and quickly changing moods.
Is cruel to animals or children and is insensitive to their suffering. Monitors your whereabouts, activities or spending.
Does not listen to you when you say "no" or try to assert your boundaries.