Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviour used to gain power and control over another person in a relationship. It can take many forms, including:

• Physical abuse: hitting, pushing, or harming the body

• Emotional abuse: insults, threats, humiliation, or intimidation

• Financial abuse: controlling money or preventing access to resources

• Sexual abuse: forcing or pressuring sexual activity without consent

Abuse often involves isolation, control, or intimidation, and it can happen to anyone — regardless of age, culture, or background.