How to Define Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a form of control that includes emotional abuse. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, any attemp to exert control over an intimate partner constitutes domestic violence. Here are some steps you can take to recognize and end the abuse.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Telephone

Instructions

Seek Professional Assistance

1. Ask for help. Call the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE to speak with a qualified professional about any violence in your home.

2. Investigate domestic violence through the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) (see Resources below). This Web site supplies information on domestic violence and can help you recognize whether you are a victim.

3. Let the authorities define your case. If your intimate partner initiates physical abuse against you, call 911 and report the incident. Request to classify it as domestic abuse.

Learn to Heal

1. Get out of the relationship. Regardless of whether the abuse you are experiencing is emotional, physical, or both, you must end it immediately.

2. Seek counseling from a therapist who has experience working with abuse victims. Speaking with an experienced therapist can help you recognize abusive behavior that you may be accepting.

3. Join a support group for victims and survivors of domestic violence. Speaking to others with similar experiences will help you learn to cope. Visit the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence Web site to find a group near you.

Tips & Warnings

• Learn your state laws. Some states require you to be married, have children or live in the same house with an abusive partner in order to classify a claim as domestic violence.

• If you choose to press charges against an abuser, as a domestic violence victim you have the right to be protected from harm and intimidation. To learn more about your rights, visit the National Office on Violence Against Women (see Resources below).

• Call 911 if the abuse ever turns physical. Regardless of whether or not it can be classified as ''domestic'' violence, violence against another person is considered battery in the United States and the victim should press charges against the perpetrator. The threat of violence is considered assault and can warrant an arrest.