Domestic violence, also known as domestic abuse, battering or intimate partner violence takes place among people who are in an intimate relationship. Domestic violence can present itself in numerous forms, including emotional, sexual and physical abuse and threats of abuse. Domestic violence is most frequently directed toward women, although men are occasionally abused by partners. Domestic violence can take place in both heterosexual and same sex relationships, as it does not discriminate (Domestic violence against women: Recognize patterns, seek help, 2011).

It is sometimes hard to recognize domestic violence in the beginning. While some relations are obviously abusive from the beginning, abuse frequently starts subtly and gets worse over time. Normally, the violence becomes more recurrent and severe as time goes by. The longer that one stays in an abusive relationship, the greater toll it takes on their self-esteem. A person often becomes depressed and anxious. They sometimes begin to question their ability to take care of themselves or speculate if the abuse is their fault. Victims often feel powerless or paralyzed. Sometimes older people, who have health problems, often feel reliant upon an abusive partner. People in same sex relationships, might be less likely to get help after an assault if they don't want to reveal their sexual orientation. The only way to stop the cycle of domestic violence is to take action and the earlier one does the better. Victims need to start by confiding in someone about what is going on, whether it's a friend, loved one, a health care provider or other close contact. In the beginning they might find it hard to talk about the abuse, but in the end they feel relief and get the support that they desperately need (Domestic violence against women: Recognize patterns, seek help, 2011).

Domestic abuse is a problem that you hear about all the time. It seems that it is becoming more and more prevalent every day. I am sure that this is not really the case because this is a problem that has been in existence for a very long time. The difference is that people are becoming more aware that it goes on and things are being done to help those who find themselves in a bad situation. The only way to stop the domestic abuse cycle is to educate everyone so that they know what the problem entails, how to get help and how to help others get help. I would like to be part of the solution to this problem and help end it across the country. The more people that are talking about the problem the more people will become aware of it and do something to end it. No one should have to live their life in fear of another person. Life throws enough curve balls at people everyday this is not one that should have to be endured by