Domestic Violence Definitions

Before anyone can join the coalition against domestic violence, it is necessary to understand the actual domestic violence definition. The true domestic violence definition is that it is a pattern of abuse that is perpetrated by a member of an intimate relationship. There is a common misunderstanding that women are the only ones that face abuse from their intimate partners, but that simply is not true. A part of the domestic violence definition is that it can happen to anyone, regardless of their gender.

The meaning that domestic violence has taken these days is that it is only between men and women that are married or dating but that is another misconception. The domestic violence definition states that the abuse is between members of an intimate relationship. This can of course mean dating or marriage, but it also includes child abuse, violence between family members and individuals that share the same home, or even friends.

The domestic violence definition outlines several different types of abuse that fall under this umbrella. There is physical abuse such as striking (open palm or closed), biting, kicking, or any other action that would cause physical pain. There is sexual abuse, which involves unwanted, non-consensual sexual contact. This could be rape, molestation, or attempts at doing so. Also included in the domestic violence definition is emotional abuse. This type of abuse usually involves intimidation, insults, and the lowering of self esteem, just to name a few.

Be aware of what constitutes domestic violence so that you can recognize the signs more easily.