What is domestic abuse? Domestic violence can be defined as a pattern of behavior in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner or family member.  Abuse includes physical, sexual, emotional, economic or psychological actions or threats. This includes any behaviors that frighten, intimidate, terrorize, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, injure or wound someone.  Domestic violence can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender.  Domestic violence can happen between couples who are married, live together or date.  Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and all education levels.