Violent conduct is a secular phenomenon, inherent in the human condition, and present in our daily lives through a variety of intentional and accidental events and behaviors. When it occurs in the context of a relationship, it is considered domestic violence and must be viewed and analyzed in the context of a bidirectional interaction between the victim and perpetrator. Family violence is under increasing scrutiny by a diverse set of social, political, and academic interests, and these stakeholders bring a broad range of perspectives, opinions, and agendas. Despite the changing attitudes toward domestic violence around the world and the increased awareness and support services available for victims, there are still many victims of domestic violence who do not report their circumstances, for a number of reasons, and are therefore unable to access much needed support and advocacy. The socially and (increasingly) legal rejection of familial violence also means that perpetrators generally work to conceal their violent behavior in order to maintain and prolong their domination of their victims. Therefore, it is important that those dealing with domestic violence are well trained to recognize the warning signs, behaviors, and circumstances that are associated with domestic violence and its various incarnations, as well as the psychological, social, and physical consequences of this form of victimization.
Elsevier, The Psychology of Criminal and Antisocial Behavior: Victim and Offender Perspectives, 2017, Pages 343-359
