Dating and Domestic violence is defined as:

A pattern of physically, sexually, and/or emotionally abusive behaviors used by one individual to maintain power over or control a partner in the context of an intimate or family relationship.

Abuse in relationships is very common--it affects at least one quarter of all relationships, between members of the same sex and opposite sexes alike. The information provided here is designed to empower both survivors and their significant others in making decisions about their lives, in breaking free of an abusive relationship, and finding the support they need to get to a place of healing.

These resources can also be useful if you feel you have a problem in controlling your anger, and tend to be abusive toward your partner or children. There is help available in the Charlottesville area and UVA community for you as well.

Domestic/dating violence follows a specific pattern of behavior, which is described as a cycle of violence. It may help to learn more about this in order to be better able to respond to abusive behavior.