What is Domestic Violence?
A Pattern of Power & Control
Domestic violence is the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another. It includes physical violence, sexual violence, threats, and economic, emotional, and psychological abuse. It can happen to anyone of any age, gender, race, religion, or socioeconomic background — in both heterosexual and same-sex relationships.
National Overview
Who Is Most at Risk?
Women between the ages of 18 and 24 are most commonly abused by an intimate partner. About 4 in 5 victims of intimate partner violence are female. Approximately 325,000 pregnant women face domestic abuse each year in the U.S. — pregnant women experience the highest rate of domestic violence compared to other demographics. Children who witness domestic violence are also deeply affected: an estimated 45 million children have witnessed family violence during their childhood, and 90% of children in abusive households are direct eyewitnesses to that violence.
Ohio Statistics
Nearly 1 in 2 Survivors Cannot Get Shelter
In FY 2023, Ohio's domestic violence programs sheltered 9,707 survivors — but turned away nearly 8,200 more due to a lack of capacity or resources. That means nearly one in two survivors who sought shelter didn't get it. Ohio currently spends just 85 cents per capita on domestic violence services, considerably less than all five of its neighboring states, which range from $1.31 per capita (Indiana) to $3.06 per capita (Kentucky). The state's 2024–25 budget included $20 million for domestic violence services, which funded services for more than 127,000 survivors in 2023.
Toledo & Lucas County
8,500 Reports in Lucas County in 2023
A 2024 report from the Ohio Attorney General's Office found there were 8,500 domestic violence reports made in Lucas County alone in 2023. Of those reports, more than 6,500 did not result in any charges — illustrating how difficult it is for survivors to navigate the justice system, and how frequently violence goes unpunished.
The Family & Child Abuse Prevention Center found that more than 300 domestic violence calls are made each month in Lucas County. Local organizations including Butterflies 15, Bethany House, The Cocoon, and OTAL provide critical programs and services to anyone experiencing abuse in the region.
The Cycle of Abuse
Domestic violence rarely looks like constant violence. Instead, it follows a recurring cycle that keeps victims trapped through hope, confusion, and dependency. Understanding the cycle is key to recognizing it.
Tension Building
Stress and anger build in the abuser. The victim may try to calm them or avoid conflict, feeling like they are "walking on eggshells."
Incident
An episode of abuse occurs — physical, verbal, emotional, or sexual. The abuser uses violence or intimidation to assert control.
Reconciliation
The abuser may apologize, make excuses, minimize the abuse, or blame the victim. Affection, gifts, and promises are used to smooth things over.
Calm ("Honeymoon")
The abuse stops temporarily. The relationship may feel loving and hopeful — this phase gives victims reason to stay and hope for permanent change.
Why Survivors Stay
On average, a survivor will leave an abusive relationship seven times before leaving for good. Leaving is the most dangerous time — the risk of lethal violence is highest when a victim attempts to leave. Barriers to leaving include fear for their safety or their children's safety, financial dependence, lack of housing, immigration status, love for their partner, and hope that the abuser will change. Supporting survivors means being patient, non-judgmental, and ready to help when they decide they are ready.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
These signs may indicate someone is experiencing domestic violence. If you suspect abuse, approach with care — never confront the abuser directly. Let the victim know you are there for them without pressure.
You Are Not Alone
Get Help Now
Confidential support is available 24/7. If you or someone you know is in danger, reach out.
National DV Hotline
1-800-799-7233
Text "START" to
88788
Ohio DV Hotline
1-800-934-9840
Butterflies 15
419-480-7800
Emergency
Call 911
Sources
