what defines 'domestic violence'?
Domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic abuse or relationship abuse) is a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship.
Domestic violence does not discriminate. Anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender can be a victim – or perpetrator – of domestic violence. It can happen to people who are married, living together or who are dating. It affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.
POWER & CONTROL WHEEL
At The Bridge, we use the Power & Control Wheel to describe most accurately what occurs in an abusive relationship.
Think of the wheel as a diagram of the tactics an abusive partner uses to keep their victim in the relationship. While the inside of the wheel is comprised of subtle, continual behaviors, the outer ring represents physical, visible violence. These are the abusive acts that are more overt and forceful, and often the intense acts that reinforce the regular use of other more subtle methods of abuse.
*Although this Power & Control Wheel uses she/her pronouns for the victim and assumes a male perpetrator, abuse can happen to people of any gender in any type of relationship.
understanding harmful relationships
why do people abuse?
what is a healthy relationship?
why do people abuse?
Unravel the motivations and psychological factors that lead to abusive behavior is a crucial step towards prevention and creating a safer future.
why do people stay?
what is a healthy relationship?
why do people abuse?
Shed light on the complexities victims face to break down barriers to overcome a harmful, complicated relationship.
what is a healthy relationship?
what is a healthy relationship?
what is a healthy relationship?
Explore the traits of a healthy relationship including mutual respect, open communication, trust and support for each other.