Domestic abuse is the use of violence or threats to control another person's behavior.
Physical, sexual, emotional and economic abuse along with threats or intimidation are different forms of violence. The abuser's goal is to maintain power and control in a relationship. Domestic abuse also happens in gay and lesbian relationships. The dynamics of power and control exist in heterosexual and same-sex relationships where abuse is occurring. The abusive partner may use the following forms of control to maintain power over the person.