Domestic violence happens between people who live together. It is also called “battering”.

Battering is physical force used to control or keep power over someone. Batterers hit, slap, kick, push or sexually assault the other person.

Women sometimes batter their partners. But usually it’s men who get violent and women who are battered.

Emotional abuse is also a form of violence. Batterers use threats, shouting, name calling and other verbal abuse to frighten the other person.

Domestic violence can happen in all families-rich or poor, young or old, gay or straight.

The violence usually gets worse over time, unless something is done to stop it. It can lead to serious harm or even death.

Violence is not a normal way to settle disagreements. Battering is against the law.

Battering can be hard to recognize and do something about.

There are ways to get help. Battering can be stopped.