Domestic violence refers to any form of abuse or violence that occurs within the context of an intimate relationship or domestic setting. It can involve physical, sexual, emotional, or economic abuse and is typically perpetrated by a current or former spouse, partner, or family member.

Domestic violence can occur in various relationships, including heterosexual, same-sex, and cohabiting partnerships. The focus of domestic violence is on the dynamics and power imbalances within intimate relationships, and the impact on individuals within those relationships, regardless of their gender.