Domestic violence is physical or emotional abuse that happens between partners. The abuse may be hitting, shaking, unwanted sexual contact, threats, name-calling and more. The abuse usually happens more than once, and results in fear of, or control by the abuser. Domestic violence hurts.
Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women in the United States.
Over 2,000 women are killed by current or former partners each year. People who hurt others do so by choice and are responsible for their own behavior. They can change their behavior, but only they can make that choice. Warning Signs Arguing is normal. Trying to control someone through threats or force is not.