Domestic violence and family violence is abusive behaviour used by one person in a relationship to dominate and control another. The abusive behaviour generally has a pattern to it and is repeated. The result is that the person subjected to the violence lives in fear and intimidation. In some cases, the abuse may continue even after the relationship has finished.
The following behaviours are some examples of domestic and family violence:
Physical and sexual abuse may not begin until a year or so into the relationship and for many women, this type of behaviour first appears during pregnancy. However, controlling and dominating behaviour may be present at the start of the relationship but can be construed as jealousy, and is often regarded as a compliment or a sign of strong love.