Missionaries of the Sacred

Note: Online activity can be monitored without your knowledge and your computer "history" cannot be completely erased. Cell phone use can also be monitored. Emails and text messages are not safe or confidential ways to talk to someone about abuse. If you are concerned that your computer use may be monitored, please use a safer computer (at an Internet cafe, public library or community technology center).

Need Help? Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.399.SAFE

What is domestic violence?

According to the website of the National Domestic Violence Hotline: Domestic violence can be defined as a pattern of behavior in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner.

Abuse is physical, sexual, emotional, economic or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that frighten, intimidate, terrorize, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, injure or wound someone.

It is important to note, that although new technology can help victims of domestic violence get help, it can also make it easier for their abusive partners to monitor them. Computer activities and website browsing history can easily be tracked. Emails and text messages are not safe forms of communication and can be intercepted. The widespread use of cell phones and text messaging make it easier for an abusive or controlling partner to "check up on" you frequently. If an abusive person has access to your cell phone for just five minutes, he or she can set it up so that they can track your whereabouts and know where you are, anytime you have your cell phone with you. Visit http://nnedv.org for more information.

Domestic violence can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender. It can happen to couples who are married, living together or who are dating. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.