Domestic violence is any attempt to maintain power and control over an intimate partner that instills fear in the victim. The use or threat of physical, emotional or sexual abuse is an issue of power and control for the abuser. Believing it is one's right to control the victim through any means necessary, abusers often are unable to see any real harm in their violent behavior.

Domestic violence is the most common cause of injury to women in our society-exceeding the number of injuries from auto accidents, muggings and rapes combined. According to Crime in Washington: 2004 Annual Report, Washington State had 52,056 domestic violence incidents reported in 2004. That same year, 32.5% of homicides committed in the state were domestic violence related.

Domestic violence happens in households of all ages, races, sexual orientations, ethnic, religious, economic, and educational backgrounds. There is no group of people that is not affected by domestic violence.

Domestic violence isolates the victim and robs them of inner strength, self-worth, and the ability to make their own choices. They begin to believe they are responsible for the abuse.

Domestic violence traumatizes children, destroying their ability to feel safe in the world and causing them to feel responsible for the abuse.

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