Anyone can be a victim of domestic violence. Cases of intimate partner violence in men occur less frequently than in women, but it is more likely to be under-reported in men. Domestic violence is seen in people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels. Occurrences of domestic violence tend to reoccur and escalate in frequency and severity over time.

Children living in homes where they witness intimate partner violence have higher risks of being in an abusive relationship as an adult, having mental health problems, having school-related problems, and abusing substances in the future.

Often, abusers may harass their victims physically, sexually, financially and/or emotionally. Abusers may try to make their victims feel isolated by controlling what the victim does, who they see or talk to, and where they go. The abuser is interested in power and control and may make threats against the victim or the children to instill fear in the victims. They may yell loudly or destroy the victim’s property. Abusers will often take control of the household’s finances by making the victim ask for money, giving a strict allowance, or taking their money. Abusers will try to emotionally wear down their victims by name calling, casting insults, playing mind games, and overall trying to make the victims feel bad about themselves.