Domestic violence is a crime.
Domestic violence happens when one partner uses direct or threatened physical, sexual, economic or psychological violence in order to establish and maintain power and control over another person. Domestic violence disrupts communities, destroys relationships, and harms hundreds of thousands of Americans each year. It is a serious crime that takes many forms and a complex problem with multiple causes. Those abused can be children, siblings, spouses, or parents, and both victims and offenders come from all racial, social, religious, ethnic, and economic backgrounds. For yourself .