Important Definitions

Relationship Violence

Also called domestic violence, dating violence, or intimate partner violence—this is a pattern of abuse that occurs in an intimate, romantic relationship. It can take many different forms, including:

• physical (e.g. hitting or pushing)
• emotional (e.g. extreme jealousy, isolation)
• verbal (e.g. yelling, swearing, name calling)
• financial (e.g. withholding money so one partner is dependent on the other)
• psychological (e.g. threats of suicide and/or homicide)
• sexual (e.g. forcing or coercing a partner to have sex when they don’t want to)
  

Sexual Violence

This is a catch-all term that is most commonly associated with rape, but also includes sexual harassment, unwanted touching, etc. Any act of sex where the actor has not obtained consent from the other person(s) can be sexual assault. It is important to remember that no matter where you are, what you’re wearing, or what substances you have consumed, it is NEVER your fault if someone sexually assaults you.

Stalking

A willful course of conduct directed at a specific person that will cause that person to be afraid or intimidated. Stalking can occur during a relationship, after a relationship, or in the absence of a relationship (e.g. a stranger or acquaintance stalking someone). Stalking makes normally legal behaviors illegal and can take several forms such as following a person; harassing via phone calls, text messages, emails, or social media; and leaving unwanted gifts.

Power and Control Wheel