Home > I Need Help > Self-Help >

Domestic Violence Information and Resources

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic Violence is abusive behavior - emotional, psychological, physical, or sexual - that one person in an intimate relationship uses in order to control the other. Most domestic violence is committed against women by their male partners. It also occurs in lesbian and gay relationships and is common in teen dating relationships.

Abuse does not just mean physical violence. It also means verbal abuse, emotional abuse, financial control, stalking, harassment, unwanted sexual contact, and other behaviors designed to maintain power and control over a partner or family member.

Examples of Domestic Violence include:

  • Verbal Abuse - name calling, threats, intimidation
  • Emotional Abuse - constant and harsh criticism, humiliation, isolation, domination
  • Financial Abuse - keeping and controlling all the money, hiding money and joint assets
  • Physical Abuse - pushing, slapping, hitting, kicking, choking, biting, using weapons, tying up, etc.
  • Sexual Abuse - forcing unwanted sexual contact, rape
  • System Abuse - violating restraining orders, violating child custody or visitation agreements, lying about a partner or family member to the police or to the courts

YOU DO NOT HAVE TO LIVE WITH DOMESTIC VIOLENCE! If you think you are a victim of Domestic Violence, please seek help. Information and resources are available on this website.

Emergency Housing

NYC Domestic Violence Hotline (all languages, 24 hours) (800) 621-HOPE (4673) (800) 810-7444 TDD

Orders Of Protection

An Order of Protection is a legal document issued by a Judge that can help keep you safe by ordering your abuser to stay away from you.

Safety Plans

If you are in an abusive relationship it is important to have a Safety Plan to keep yourself and your children safe.

Partner Organizations

The following is a list of Partner Organizations that offer help to those facing Domestic Violence.