Domestic abuse is a pattern of behaviors used to establish power and control over an intimate partner often leading to the threat or use of violence. Abuse is any controlling, hurtful act, word, or gesture that injures another's body or emotions. Domestic abuse is not a disagreement, a marital spat or an anger management problem. Domestic abuse is the use of power and control .
Domestic abuse takes many forms and escalates in severity.
Abuse affects us all. It leaves its mark on infants, children, teens and adults. It affects the abuser, the victims, and the witnesses. Abuse may not always leave victims with bruises or broken bones, but it always hurts. CASA is aware that many individuals who need domestic abuse services may not seek services for a variety of reasons.