Domestic violence is a pattern of learned behavior in which one person uses assaultive and controlling behaviors against another (an intimate partner) to maintain power and control. This can include physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse and stalking. Violence can occur in any kind of relationship: married, dating or same sex. It can also take many forms and can happen all the time or once in a while.

Examples of abuse include:

• Verbal name-calling or put downs
• Keeping a partner from contacting their family or friends
• Withholding money
• Stopping a partner from getting or keeping a job
• Actual or threatened physical harm
• Sexual assault
• Stalking
• Intimidation

If you are being abused, please remember it is not your fault. You don’t deserve this, and no matter how scary it seems, you are not alone. HAVEN is here to help.