About Domestic Violence

Did you know?  Domestic violence affects a quarter of American families and accounts for more than a third of visits to emergency rooms by women. 

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is a pattern of coercive control that one person exercises over another in an intimate relationship.  Read more »

Warning Signs
Are you, or is someone close to you, in an abusive relationship?  The warning signs for domestic violence can be difficult to recognize.  Read more »

Myths and Realities
There are many commonly-held myths about domestic violence.  By learning more, you can help counter these misconceptions when you hear them repeated or see them in print.  Read more »

Domestic Violence in the News
In the spring of 2008, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick issued the first ever Public Health Advisory about domestic violence.  Read recent news articles and editorials about domestic violence. 

Legislative Advocacy
You can help affect the laws and policies that affect families living with violence or seeking to escape it.  Read more »

Suggested Reading
Recent years have seen the publication of numerous books and research articles shedding light on domestic violence.  Read more »