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Table of Contents
“Recognize the signs, break the silence: 10 warning signs of Domestic Violence”
Introduction
Introduction:
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. Recognizing the warning signs of domestic violence is crucial in order to protect yourself or someone you care about. Here are 10 warning signs of domestic violence that you shouldn’t ignore.
Physical Abuse
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can take many forms, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, and financial abuse. In this article, we will focus on physical abuse, which is one of the most visible and often the most dangerous forms of domestic violence.
Physical abuse can manifest in many ways, from hitting and punching to kicking and choking. It can leave lasting physical and emotional scars on its victims, and it is important to recognize the warning signs of physical abuse so that you can take action to protect yourself or someone you care about.
One of the most obvious warning signs of physical abuse is unexplained injuries. If you or someone you know has frequent bruises, cuts, or broken bones that cannot be easily explained, it may be a sign that they are being physically abused. It is important to take these injuries seriously and seek help as soon as possible.
Another warning sign of physical abuse is a pattern of controlling behavior. Abusers often try to control every aspect of their victim’s life, from what they wear to who they can see. If you or someone you know is constantly being told what to do and how to act, it may be a sign of physical abuse.
Physical abuse can also manifest in the form of threats and intimidation. Abusers may threaten to harm their victims or their loved ones if they do not comply with their demands. If you or someone you know is living in fear of their partner, it is important to seek help immediately.
Isolation is another warning sign of physical abuse. Abusers often try to isolate their victims from friends and family in order to maintain control over them. If you or someone you know is being prevented from seeing loved ones or going out in public, it may be a sign of physical abuse.
Financial abuse is another warning sign of physical abuse. Abusers may control their victim’s finances, preventing them from accessing money or resources. If you or someone you know is being financially controlled by their partner, it may be a sign of physical abuse.
Sexual abuse is also a form of physical abuse. Abusers may force their victims to engage in sexual acts against their will, or use sex as a means of control. If you or someone you know is being sexually abused, it is important to seek help immediately.
Gaslighting is a common tactic used by abusers to manipulate their victims. They may deny or minimize the abuse, making their victims doubt their own perceptions of reality. If you or someone you know is being gaslighted, it may be a sign of physical abuse.
Victims of physical abuse may also exhibit changes in behavior or mood. They may become withdrawn, anxious, or depressed as a result of the abuse. If you or someone you know is showing signs of emotional distress, it may be a sign of physical abuse.
Finally, if you or someone you know is in a relationship that feels unsafe or unhealthy, it is important to trust your instincts and seek help. Domestic violence is never acceptable, and no one deserves to be abused. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency services. There are also many resources available for victims of domestic violence, including hotlines, shelters, and support groups. Remember, you are not alone, and help is available.
Emotional Abuse
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. While physical abuse is often the most visible form of domestic violence, emotional abuse can be just as damaging and insidious. It is important to recognize the warning signs of emotional abuse in order to protect yourself or someone you care about from further harm.
One of the most common warning signs of emotional abuse is constant criticism. If your partner is constantly putting you down, belittling your accomplishments, or making you feel worthless, it is likely that you are experiencing emotional abuse. This type of behavior can erode your self-esteem and make you feel like you are not worthy of love or respect.
Another warning sign of emotional abuse is isolation. Abusers often try to control their victims by cutting them off from friends and family members. If your partner is trying to isolate you from your support system or make you feel like you have no one else to turn to, it is a red flag that you may be in an emotionally abusive relationship.
Gaslighting is another common tactic used by emotional abusers. Gaslighting is a form of manipulation where the abuser makes you doubt your own reality or sanity. They may deny things they have said or done, blame you for their behavior, or make you feel like you are overreacting. Gaslighting can make you feel confused, anxious, and unsure of yourself.
Emotional abusers often use threats and intimidation to control their victims. If your partner threatens you, your children, or your pets, or uses intimidation tactics to make you do what they want, it is a clear sign of emotional abuse. Threats and intimidation can make you feel scared, powerless, and trapped in the relationship.
Another warning sign of emotional abuse is manipulation. Abusers often use manipulation tactics to get what they want or to make you feel guilty for standing up for yourself. They may use guilt trips, emotional blackmail, or other forms of manipulation to control you and keep you in the relationship.
Emotional abusers also often exhibit controlling behavior. They may try to control what you wear, who you see, where you go, or how you spend your money. Controlling behavior can make you feel like you are constantly walking on eggshells and can lead to feelings of anxiety and fear.
If your partner is constantly monitoring your activities, checking your phone or email, or demanding to know where you are at all times, it is a sign of emotional abuse. Monitoring and surveillance are tactics used by abusers to control their victims and make them feel like they are constantly being watched.
Emotional abusers often exhibit erratic mood swings. They may be loving and affectionate one moment and then become angry and aggressive the next. This can make you feel like you are constantly walking on eggshells and can lead to feelings of anxiety and fear.
If you are experiencing any of these warning signs of emotional abuse, it is important to seek help. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor about your situation. Remember that you deserve to be treated with respect and kindness, and that there is help available to support you in leaving an abusive relationship.
Isolation
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. One of the key tactics used by abusers to control their victims is isolation. By cutting off their victims from friends, family, and support systems, abusers are able to maintain power and control over them.
There are several warning signs of isolation that should not be ignored. One of the most common signs is when a person becomes increasingly isolated from their friends and family. This can happen gradually, as the abuser may start by criticizing the victim’s loved ones or creating conflicts between them. Over time, the victim may find themselves spending less time with their friends and family, and more time with the abuser.
Another warning sign of isolation is when the abuser monitors or controls the victim’s communication with others. This can take many forms, such as monitoring phone calls, texts, or emails, or even preventing the victim from using social media or other forms of communication. By controlling who the victim can talk to and how they can communicate, the abuser is able to further isolate them from their support network.
Isolation can also manifest in the form of controlling the victim’s activities and whereabouts. The abuser may insist on knowing where the victim is at all times, or may prevent them from going out without permission. This can make it difficult for the victim to maintain relationships outside of the abusive relationship, further isolating them from potential sources of support.
Financial control is another warning sign of isolation. The abuser may control all of the finances in the relationship, leaving the victim financially dependent on them. This can make it difficult for the victim to leave the relationship, as they may not have the resources to support themselves on their own. By controlling the victim’s access to money, the abuser is able to further isolate them and maintain power and control over them.
Emotional manipulation is also a common tactic used by abusers to isolate their victims. The abuser may use guilt, shame, or fear to manipulate the victim into staying in the relationship and cutting off contact with others. This can make it difficult for the victim to reach out for help or support, as they may feel ashamed or afraid of the consequences.
If you or someone you know is experiencing isolation as a form of domestic violence, it is important to seek help. There are resources available to support victims of domestic violence, including hotlines, shelters, and counseling services. Remember, you are not alone, and there is help available to support you through this difficult time. Do not ignore the warning signs of isolation in a domestic violence situation – reach out for help and support today.
Controlling Behavior
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and psychological abuse. One of the most common warning signs of domestic violence is controlling behavior. This type of behavior can be subtle at first, but it can escalate over time and become more dangerous if left unchecked.
Controlling behavior is often used by abusers to maintain power and control over their victims. It can manifest in a variety of ways, including monitoring the victim’s movements, isolating them from friends and family, and dictating what they can and cannot do. If you are in a relationship where you feel like your partner is trying to control you, it’s important to recognize the warning signs and take action to protect yourself.
One warning sign of controlling behavior is when your partner constantly checks up on you. This could include calling or texting you multiple times a day to see where you are, who you’re with, and what you’re doing. While it’s normal for partners to check in with each other occasionally, if it becomes excessive or feels invasive, it could be a red flag for controlling behavior.
Another warning sign is when your partner tries to isolate you from your friends and family. They may discourage you from spending time with loved ones, or try to turn you against them. This is a common tactic used by abusers to make their victims more dependent on them and less likely to seek help or support.
Controlling behavior can also manifest in more subtle ways, such as making all the decisions in the relationship or constantly criticizing and belittling you. Your partner may try to control what you wear, where you go, and who you talk to. They may also use threats or intimidation to get their way, making you feel scared or powerless.
If you are experiencing controlling behavior in your relationship, it’s important to take action to protect yourself. This could include setting boundaries with your partner, seeking support from friends and family, or reaching out to a domestic violence hotline for help. Remember, you deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, and no one has the right to control or manipulate you.
In conclusion, controlling behavior is a common warning sign of domestic violence that should not be ignored. If you are in a relationship where you feel like your partner is trying to control you, it’s important to recognize the warning signs and take steps to protect yourself. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you escape an abusive situation. Don’t wait until it’s too late – reach out for help today.
Verbal Abuse
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and verbal abuse. Verbal abuse is often overlooked or dismissed as not being as harmful as physical abuse, but the truth is that it can be just as damaging and destructive.
Verbal abuse is a form of emotional abuse that involves using words to control, manipulate, or belittle another person. It can take many forms, including name-calling, insults, threats, and constant criticism. Verbal abuse can be subtle and insidious, making it difficult to recognize and even harder to escape.
There are several warning signs of verbal abuse that you should be aware of. One of the most common signs is constant criticism. If your partner is always finding fault with you and putting you down, it could be a sign of verbal abuse. Another warning sign is name-calling. If your partner calls you names or uses derogatory language towards you, it is a clear indication of verbal abuse.
Threats are another red flag. If your partner threatens you with violence or harm, it is a serious warning sign of verbal abuse. Verbal abuse can also take the form of gaslighting, where your partner tries to make you doubt your own reality and sanity. This can be incredibly damaging to your mental health and well-being.
Another warning sign of verbal abuse is isolation. If your partner tries to control who you can see or talk to, it is a form of emotional abuse. Verbal abusers often try to isolate their victims in order to maintain control over them. They may also try to control your finances or prevent you from working or going to school.
If you are experiencing any of these warning signs of verbal abuse, it is important to seek help. Verbal abuse can have serious consequences for your mental and emotional well-being. It can erode your self-esteem and self-worth, making it difficult for you to leave the abusive relationship.
There are resources available to help you if you are experiencing verbal abuse. You can reach out to a trusted friend or family member, a therapist, or a domestic violence hotline for support. It is important to remember that you are not alone and that help is available.
In conclusion, verbal abuse is a serious issue that should not be ignored. It can have lasting effects on your mental and emotional well-being. If you are experiencing any of the warning signs of verbal abuse, it is important to seek help and support. Remember that you deserve to be treated with respect and kindness, and that there are people who can help you escape from an abusive relationship.
Intimidation
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and psychological abuse. One of the most common tactics used by abusers is intimidation. Intimidation is a way for the abuser to assert power and control over their victim, often through threats, manipulation, and fear.
There are several warning signs of intimidation that should not be ignored. One of the most obvious signs is when the abuser uses threatening language or gestures to instill fear in their victim. This can include making threats of violence, destroying property, or using aggressive body language to intimidate the victim.
Another warning sign of intimidation is when the abuser tries to isolate their victim from friends and family. This can be done through controlling behavior, such as monitoring phone calls and texts, or by preventing the victim from seeing or speaking to loved ones. By isolating the victim, the abuser can further control and manipulate them.
Intimidation can also take the form of emotional abuse, such as constant criticism, belittling, or humiliation. The abuser may use insults and put-downs to make the victim feel worthless and powerless. This can have a devastating impact on the victim’s self-esteem and mental health.
In some cases, intimidation can escalate to physical violence. The abuser may use physical force to intimidate and control their victim, such as pushing, hitting, or choking. This type of abuse is extremely dangerous and can have serious consequences for the victim’s physical and emotional well-being.
It is important to recognize the warning signs of intimidation and take action to protect yourself or someone you care about. If you are experiencing any form of intimidation in your relationship, it is important to reach out for help. You are not alone, and there are resources available to support you.
If you suspect that someone you know is being intimidated, it is important to approach the situation with care and sensitivity. Offer your support and let them know that you are there to help. Encourage them to seek help from a trusted friend, family member, or professional.
Remember, domestic violence is never acceptable, and no one deserves to be treated with fear and intimidation. By recognizing the warning signs of intimidation and taking action, we can work together to end domestic violence and create a safer, more supportive community for all.
In conclusion, intimidation is a common tactic used by abusers to control and manipulate their victims. It can take many forms, including threats, isolation, emotional abuse, and physical violence. It is important to recognize the warning signs of intimidation and take action to protect yourself or someone you care about. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to support you. Together, we can work towards ending domestic violence and creating a safer, more compassionate world for all.
Threats
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. Recognizing the warning signs of domestic violence is crucial in order to protect yourself or someone you care about from potential harm. In this article, we will discuss 10 warning signs of domestic violence that you shouldn’t ignore.
One of the most common warning signs of domestic violence is threats. If your partner threatens to harm you, your children, or your pets, it is a clear indication that the situation is escalating and could become dangerous. Threats can take many forms, from verbal threats to physical intimidation. It is important to take any threat seriously and seek help immediately.
Another warning sign of domestic violence is controlling behavior. If your partner tries to control who you see, where you go, or what you do, it is a red flag that they are trying to exert power and control over you. This can manifest in various ways, such as monitoring your phone calls, texts, or social media accounts, or isolating you from friends and family. If you feel like you are being controlled, it is important to reach out for support.
Jealousy is another warning sign of domestic violence. If your partner becomes excessively jealous or possessive, it can be a sign of insecurity and a lack of trust. This can lead to controlling behavior and even physical violence. It is important to address jealousy issues early on and set boundaries to protect yourself from harm.
Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse that is often used in domestic violence situations. Gaslighting involves manipulating someone into doubting their own reality, memory, or sanity. If your partner constantly denies things they have said or done, or tries to make you feel like you are crazy or overreacting, it is a sign of gaslighting. This can be extremely damaging to your mental health and self-esteem, and it is important to seek help if you are experiencing this type of abuse.
Financial abuse is another warning sign of domestic violence. If your partner controls all the finances in the relationship, or prevents you from working or accessing money, it is a form of abuse. Financial abuse can leave you feeling trapped and dependent on your abuser, making it difficult to leave the relationship. It is important to have access to your own money and resources in order to protect yourself from financial abuse.
Physical violence is perhaps the most obvious warning sign of domestic violence. If your partner has ever hit, slapped, kicked, or otherwise physically harmed you, it is a clear indication that the situation is dangerous and could escalate further. Physical violence should never be tolerated, and it is important to seek help and support to ensure your safety.
Sexual abuse is another warning sign of domestic violence. If your partner forces you to engage in sexual acts against your will, or uses sex as a weapon to control or manipulate you, it is a form of abuse. Sexual abuse can have long-lasting effects on your mental and emotional well-being, and it is important to seek help if you are experiencing this type of abuse.
Emotional abuse is a warning sign of domestic violence that can be harder to recognize. Emotional abuse involves manipulating, belittling, or demeaning someone in order to control them. If your partner constantly criticizes you, humiliates you, or makes you feel worthless, it is a form of emotional abuse. This can have a profound impact on your self-esteem and mental health, and it is important to seek help if you are experiencing this type of abuse.
Stalking is another warning sign of domestic violence that is often overlooked. If your partner follows you, shows up uninvited at your workplace or home, or monitors your movements without your consent, it is a form of stalking. Stalking behavior can be extremely frightening and can escalate into violence. It is important to take stalking seriously and seek help to protect yourself from harm.
Finally, isolation is a warning sign of domestic violence that can make it difficult to seek help. If your partner isolates you from friends, family, or support networks, it can leave you feeling alone and vulnerable. Isolation can make it harder to leave an abusive relationship, as you may feel like you have nowhere to turn. It is important to reach out to trusted friends, family members, or support services for help and support.
In conclusion, recognizing the warning signs of domestic violence is crucial in order to protect yourself or someone you care about from harm. Threats, controlling behavior, jealousy, gaslighting, financial abuse, physical violence, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, stalking, and isolation are all warning signs that should not be ignored. If you are experiencing any of these warning signs, it is important to seek help and support to ensure your safety and well-being. Domestic violence is never acceptable, and everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
Jealousy
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and psychological abuse. One of the most common warning signs of domestic violence is jealousy. While jealousy is a normal human emotion, it can become dangerous when it escalates into controlling behavior and violence.
One of the first warning signs of domestic violence is when your partner becomes excessively jealous. They may constantly accuse you of cheating or flirting with others, even when there is no evidence to support their claims. They may try to isolate you from friends and family, or monitor your every move. This type of behavior is not only unhealthy, but it can also be a precursor to more serious forms of abuse.
If your partner exhibits signs of jealousy, it is important to take them seriously. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to a dangerous situation. It is important to set boundaries and communicate openly with your partner about their behavior. If they are unwilling to change or seek help, it may be time to seek support from a trusted friend, family member, or domestic violence hotline.
Another warning sign of domestic violence is when your partner becomes overly possessive. They may try to control what you wear, who you talk to, or where you go. They may become angry or violent if you do not comply with their demands. This type of behavior is a clear indication that your partner is trying to exert power and control over you.
If you find yourself in a situation where your partner is exhibiting possessive behavior, it is important to seek help immediately. Domestic violence can escalate quickly, and it is important to take action before it is too late. Reach out to a domestic violence hotline or a trusted friend or family member for support.
In addition to jealousy and possessiveness, another warning sign of domestic violence is when your partner becomes verbally abusive. They may belittle you, insult you, or threaten you with violence. Verbal abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse, and it is important to take it seriously.
If your partner is verbally abusive, it is important to set boundaries and communicate your feelings. Let them know that their behavior is not acceptable and that you will not tolerate it. If the abuse continues, it may be necessary to seek help from a therapist or a domestic violence hotline.
It is important to remember that domestic violence is never your fault. No one deserves to be abused, and there is help available for those who are in abusive relationships. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, it is important to reach out for support. Remember, you are not alone, and there are people who care about you and want to help.
Gaslighting
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and psychological abuse. One common tactic used by abusers is gaslighting, a form of manipulation that can make the victim doubt their own reality. Gaslighting is a subtle but insidious form of abuse that can have long-lasting effects on the victim’s mental health.
Gaslighting often starts small, with the abuser making subtle comments or actions that undermine the victim’s sense of self-worth. They may criticize the victim’s appearance, intelligence, or abilities, making them feel inadequate and insecure. Over time, these comments can escalate into more overt forms of manipulation, such as lying, denying, or twisting the truth to make the victim question their own perceptions.
One of the key warning signs of gaslighting is when the abuser consistently denies or minimizes their abusive behavior. They may try to convince the victim that they are overreacting or imagining things, making them feel like they are the ones at fault. This can create a sense of confusion and self-doubt in the victim, making it easier for the abuser to maintain control over them.
Gaslighting can also involve isolating the victim from their support network, such as friends and family. The abuser may try to turn the victim against their loved ones, making them feel like they can only rely on the abuser for support. This can further erode the victim’s sense of self and make it harder for them to seek help.
Another warning sign of gaslighting is when the abuser uses manipulation tactics to make the victim feel dependent on them. They may withhold affection, attention, or resources as a way to control the victim’s behavior. This can create a sense of fear and insecurity in the victim, making it harder for them to leave the abusive relationship.
Gaslighting can also involve projecting the abuser’s own insecurities onto the victim. They may accuse the victim of being controlling, manipulative, or abusive, when in reality, it is the abuser who is exhibiting these behaviors. This can create a sense of guilt and shame in the victim, making it harder for them to speak out against the abuse.
It is important to recognize the warning signs of gaslighting and take action to protect yourself or someone you care about. If you suspect that you are being gaslit, it is important to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional for support. Remember that you are not alone and that help is available.
In conclusion, gaslighting is a harmful form of manipulation that can have devastating effects on the victim’s mental health. By recognizing the warning signs of gaslighting and taking steps to protect yourself, you can break free from the cycle of abuse and reclaim your sense of self-worth. Remember that you deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, and that there is help available if you need it.
Financial Control
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and financial abuse. Financial control is a common tactic used by abusers to maintain power and control over their victims. In this article, we will discuss 10 warning signs of financial control that you should not ignore.
One of the first warning signs of financial control is when your partner restricts your access to money. This can take many forms, such as controlling how much money you are allowed to spend, monitoring your purchases, or withholding money from you altogether. If your partner is constantly questioning your spending or making you justify every purchase, it may be a sign of financial abuse.
Another warning sign is when your partner insists on controlling all of the finances in the relationship. This can include refusing to let you have access to bank accounts, credit cards, or other financial resources. If your partner is the only one making financial decisions and you are left in the dark about your own financial situation, it may be a red flag.
A third warning sign is when your partner uses money as a way to manipulate or punish you. This can include threatening to cut off financial support if you do not comply with their demands, or using money to control your behavior. If your partner uses money as a weapon to control you, it is a clear sign of financial abuse.
Additionally, if your partner is constantly belittling your financial contributions or making you feel guilty for spending money, it may be a sign of financial control. Abusers often use financial tactics to undermine their victim’s self-esteem and make them feel dependent on them for financial support.
Another warning sign is when your partner prevents you from working or earning your own income. This can include sabotaging job opportunities, pressuring you to quit your job, or refusing to allow you to pursue your career goals. If your partner is actively trying to keep you financially dependent on them, it is a form of financial abuse.
Furthermore, if your partner is using your credit or identity without your permission, it is a clear sign of financial control. This can include opening credit cards in your name, taking out loans without your knowledge, or using your personal information to commit fraud. If your partner is engaging in financial activities without your consent, it is a serious form of financial abuse.
Another warning sign is when your partner refuses to contribute financially to the household or expects you to shoulder all of the financial responsibilities. If your partner is not willing to contribute their fair share or expects you to support them financially, it is a sign of financial control.
Additionally, if your partner is constantly pressuring you to give them access to your financial information or passwords, it may be a sign of financial abuse. Abusers often use tactics like this to gain control over their victim’s finances and monitor their every move.
In conclusion, financial control is a serious form of domestic violence that should not be ignored. If you recognize any of these warning signs in your relationship, it is important to seek help and support. Remember, you deserve to have control over your own finances and to be treated with respect and dignity.
Q&A
1. What is isolation?
Isolation is when the abuser controls who the victim sees, talks to, and spends time with.
2. What is jealousy and possessiveness?
Jealousy and possessiveness are when the abuser becomes overly controlling and suspicious of the victim’s actions.
3. What is verbal abuse?
Verbal abuse is when the abuser uses words to degrade, humiliate, or intimidate the victim.
4. What is financial abuse?
Financial abuse is when the abuser controls the victim’s access to money, resources, or financial independence.
5. What is intimidation?
Intimidation is when the abuser uses threats, gestures, or actions to instill fear in the victim.
6. What is manipulation?
Manipulation is when the abuser uses tactics to control or influence the victim’s thoughts, feelings, or actions.
7. What is physical violence?
Physical violence is when the abuser uses physical force to harm or intimidate the victim.
8. What is sexual abuse?
Sexual abuse is when the abuser coerces or forces the victim into unwanted sexual activity.
9. What is stalking?
Stalking is when the abuser follows, monitors, or harasses the victim in person or online.
10. What is denial and blame-shifting?
Denial and blame-shifting is when the abuser refuses to take responsibility for their actions and instead blames the victim for the abuse.
Conclusion
It is crucial to recognize and address the warning signs of domestic violence to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals in abusive relationships. By being aware of these signs and taking action, we can help prevent further harm and provide support to those in need. It is important not to ignore these warning signs and to seek help from professionals or support services if you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence.