The term domestic violence is used most commonly to describe spousal abuse. This includes a pattern of violent and coercive behavior by one adult in an intimate relationship over another adult.
Females are the recipients of the abuse in most cases.
The abuse may consist of repeated severe beatings or include more subtle forms of abuse, like threats and intimidation. Child Abuse is any act that endangers or impairs a child's physical or emotional health and development. Elder Abuse is abuse or neglect of the elderly by persons whom them depend on for support and care. This can occur in private homes by family members, such as a son or daughter, or in institutional settings by staff. Tell the individual that help and assistance are available.