BRIEF: The what and why of domestic violence

Oct. 17--What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence is the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another.

It includes physical violence, sexual violence, threats and emotional abuse. The frequency and severity of domestic violence can vary dramatically.

Why this, now?

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which began in 1987. This week -- Oct. 14-20 -- is the National Week of Action against domestic violence.

Source: National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

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