Domestic Violence is a pattern of physical and psychological abuse, threats, isolation, or intimidation used by one person to gain and maintain power and control.
Just like there is no one reason for abuse, there is not one type of batterer. Many batterers look just like you and I, and some are successful professionals.
No, Domestic Violence is not a form of losing control; it is an attempt to gain control. Most acts of violence are premeditated, and behind closed doors. Most batterers are good manipulators and know how to convince people and their victims that they are not at fault.
No, drugs and alcohol do not cause domestic violence. The need to have power and control is the cause of domestic violence. However drugs and alcohol will cloud sound judgment and as a result, violence may be exacerbated by these substance. But please remember that it is not the cause.
Women stay in abusive relationships for many reason. Most women believe that they have nowhere else to go, they stay because of financial reasons, women stay out of fear, and because they think the children should have both parents. These are just a few of the reason women choose to stay with their abusers. Statistics show that 75% of women who are murdered by their batterers are killed when they leave or after they leave the relationship.
It is a court order made in writing that prohibits by law abusive behavior.
The Illinois domestic act (IDVA) is a law that relates specifically to family and household members. Under IDVA, a circuit court judge can order and forbid a family member or household member from continuous abusive behavior by granting an order of protection.