Domestic violence can best be described as:

Domestic violence is best described as a systematic method of controlling an intimate partner because it encompasses a range of abusive behaviors that are used to exert power and control over another individual in an intimate relationship. This definition highlights that domestic violence is not merely a singular event or a result of isolated incidents; rather, it reflects an ongoing pattern that can include physical, emotional, psychological, and even economic abuse.

This perspective acknowledges the complexity of domestic violence, recognizing that it often involves manipulation and coercion that extends beyond just physical altercations. Understanding domestic violence in this context is crucial for identifying the dynamics at play in abusive relationships and for creating effective interventions. It also emphasizes that victims can be of any gender and that the abuse can follow various forms, not limited to physical violence alone.