what is a dv relationship

Domestic violence (DV) is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. It can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, psychological, or technological actions or threats of actions or other patterns of coercive behavior that influence another person within an intimate partner relationship. The term "intimate partner violence" is often used synonymously with domestic abuse or domestic violence, but it specifically refers to violence occurring within a couples relationship, including marriage, cohabitation, or non-cohabiting intimate partners. The World Health Organization (WHO) adds controlling behaviors as a form of abuse. Domestic violence can occur among heterosexual or same-sex couples and does not require sexual intimacy. It can vary in frequency and severity, occurring on a continuum ranging from one hit that may or may not impact the victim to chronic, severe battering. Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, and the community.