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24-Hour Crisis Line
(415) 255-0165

ABOUT DOMESTIC ABUSE

Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior used by one person to maintain power and control over another. Physical battering is not the only form of abuse. Emotional and sexual abuse such as insults, intimidation, threats and forced sex are also part of an abusive relationship.

Domestic violence occurs between people in relationships, such as current or former: husbands and wives; boyfriends and girlfriends; gay and lesbian partners; the elderly and their caretakers; parents, children and/or relatives; sex workers and their pimps/clients; as well as victims of stalking or trafficking. Although anyone may be a victim, the majority are women and their children.