"Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner."
Domestic violence can be physical, verbal, sexual, emotional/psychological, and/or financial in nature. It can happen to individuals of any race, nationality, age, gender, socio-economic strata, education level, sexual orientation, or religion.
Experience physical violence from an intimate partner nationwide (CDC).
Experience physical violence from an intimate partner nationwide (CDC).
As many as 40%+ are victims of physical intimate partner violence (Raj & Silverman 2000).
Access local DFW shelters, legal aid, social services, and community networks.
Identify subtle red flags, relationship power dynamics, and warning signs.
Step-by-step confidential safety guidance for emergency situations.
Adapted from Lenore Walker (1979). Not all relationships fit the cycle, but recognizing patterns helps.
Tensions rise, verbal threats, nitpicking, isolation. Victim tries to calm him down, walking on eggshells.
Acute physical, verbal, or emotional abuse occurs. Victim protects self & children, calls police, or leaves.
Batterer apologizes, begs forgiveness, promises change. Temporary calm before the cycle repeats.
Domestic violence often follows a predictable 3-phase cycle of behavior and response.