What is the definition of domestic violence?

In the state of Washington, domestic violence is defined as a pattern of abusive behavior that is used to establish power and control over another intimate partner. This can include physical, psychological, emotional, economic, sexual, and other forms of abuse. It includes any behavior that is intended to cause fear, intimidation, or harm in a current or former intimate relationship. Domestic violence can occur in both heterosexual and same-sex couples and can involve people of any age, gender, or cultural background. Physical abuse is any intentional use of physical force with the intent to cause fear or injury, such as hitting, kicking, biting, slapping, or restraining someone. Psychological abuse is any type of emotional or mental abuse, such as name calling, humiliation, threats, or controlling behavior that would cause someone to feel distressed or intimidated. Economic abuse is any efforts to make or attempt to make a person financially dependent, such as controlling all the finances, withholding money, or preventing one partner from working. Sexual abuse is any unwanted sexual contact, such as forcing a partner to perform sexual acts, touching them without their consent, or restricting access to birth control or sexual health services. Other forms of domestic violence include stalking, cyberstalking, and emotional abuse. Domestic violence is an issue that affects people of all backgrounds, and it is important that it be recognized and addressed in order to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.

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What is the definition of domestic violence?

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