ABOUT VIOLENCE

Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior by which an individual gains or maintains power and control over an intimate partner. Abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic or psychological. Any behaviors that frighten, intimidate, terrorize, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, injure or wound someone are abusive. Domestic violence can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender. It can happen to couples who are married, living together or who are dating. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.

Does the person you love…

• "Track" all of your time?
• Constantly accuse you of being unfaithful?
• Discourage your relationships with family and friends?
• Prevent you from working or attending school?
• Criticize you for the little things?
• Anger easily when drinking or using drugs?
• Control all finances and force you to account for what you spend?
• Humiliate you in front of others?
• Destroy personal property or sentimental items?
• Hit, punch, slap, kick, or bite you or your children?
• Threaten to hurt you, your family or your pets?
• Use or threaten to use a weapon against you?
• Force you to have sex against your will?

If your answer to any of the above questions is "yes," contact the Women's Services Hotline, 888-881-0189 to learn how to get help.