What is intimate partner abuse characterized by?

Intimate partner abuse is characterized by acts of violence in intimate relationships, which encompasses a wide range of abusive behaviors that individuals may experience from a current or former partner. This type of abuse can manifest as physical violence, sexual violence, emotional abuse, or psychological manipulation, all of which occur within the context of a romantic or intimate relationship. The focus on intimate relationships distinguishes this form of abuse from other types, such as friend-to-friend or peer violence, emphasizing the unique dynamics and power imbalances that can occur in intimate partnerships. Understanding intimate partner abuse requires recognizing the emotional and relational aspects that contribute to these incidents, including issues of control, dependency, and the complexities of love and attachment within these relationships.