What Is Domestic Violence?
The definition of domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain control over another intimate partner.
What to do:
If you feel safe doing so:
FIND SAFE
AREAS
Identify safe areas of the house. Try to avoid small, enclosed spaces without exits.
IDENTIFY
RED FLAGS
Try to identify signs that your abuser is getting upset and may lead violence.
ESTABLISH A CODE
Find a word or phrase you can use to let your children, friends, or neighbors know that you’re in danger.
MEMORIZE
CONTACTS
Ask a few trusted individuals to be your emergency contact if you need immediate assistance.
BE READY
TO LEAVE
Hide a spare car key, cash, clothing, and important documents stashed in a safe place.
What Are the "Warning Signs" of an Abuser?
This diagram is called the Power and Control Wheel. Often abusers will use these tactics to hold power and control over their victim.
If you or someone you know is experiencing one or more of these things, please reach out to Thrive Together.
Warning Signs of Stalking
Additional Barries within the Deaf Community
At Thrive Together, we believe in breaking down barriers. We have experience in working with individuals who identify as Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and individuals with hearing loss.
Types of Domestic Violence
PHYSICAL
Any type of violent behavior inflicted on the victim.
EMOTIONAL
Diminishing the victim's sense of self-worth and/or self-esteem.
SEXUAL
Coercing the victim into having sexual contact without the victim's consent.
PSYCHOLOGICAL
Invoking fear through intimidation of the victim.
ECONOMIC
Trying to make the victim financially reliant on the abuser.
