Definition 

Many people who are being abused do not see themselves as victims. Also, abusers do not see themselves as being abusive. Domestic violence is about one person in a relationship using a pattern of behaviors to control the other person. It can happen to people who are married or not married, living together, separated, or dating. 

If your partner repeatedly uses one or more of the following to control you: 

·        pushing, hitting, slapping, choking, kicking, or biting 

·        threatening you, your children, other family members or pets 

·        threatening suicide to get you to do something 

·        using or threatening to use a weapon against you 

·        keeping or taking your paycheck 

·        putting you down or making you feel bad 

·        forcing you to have sex or to do sexual acts you do not want or like 

·        keeping you from seeing your friends, family or from going to work 

You have been abused! 

If you are being abused, REMEMBER: 

1.      You are not alone. 

2.      It is not your fault. 

3.      Help is available.