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 The victims of domestic violence are - in the great majority of cases - women. Beyond that, however, there are no other common characteristics. Abuse affects women of all ages, and occurs in families of all educational, socio-economic, cultural and religious backgrounds. Victims may live in urban or rural environments. They may be married or living with their abuser, or in a dating relationship. Many have children.
The signs of abuse are often apparent very early in the relationship and may initially constitute verbal and/or emotional abuse. Women in abusive relationships may experience all or some of the following:
Fear: afraid for herself or the safety of her children; worried about losing financial support; feeling like a hostage; being blamed for whatever happens
Jealousy: having to account for her whereabouts at all times; unable to speak with people of the opposite sex; being forced to cater to her partner's needs and whims
Isolation: limited or no contact with family and friends; avoiding others because of fear and embarrassment; no outside interests or activities
Humiliation: enduring insults about physical appearance or abilities; being criticized or put down in front of others; forced to have sex
Deprivation: deprived of basic needs; lack of love and care; denied access to money; loss of self-identity
Exhaustion: sleep deprived; too many expectations and responsibilities
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