Domestic Violence is a pattern of behavior used to establish power and control over another person through fear and intimidation, often including the threat or use of violence.

Some signs of an abusive relationship include:

• Exerting strict control (financial, social and/or appearance).
• Needing constant contact including excessive texts and calls.
• Emotional abuse including insulting a partner in front of other people.
• Extreme jealousy.
• Showing fear around a partner. Isolation from family and friends.
• Frequent canceling of plans at the last minute.
• Unexplained injuries or explanations that don’t quite add up.

Talking about these issues openly will help end the shame and stigma that domestic violence survivors are burdened with.

Domestic violence stalkers are among the most persistent and potentially dangerous offenders.

It is estimated that up to 90% of cases involving women victims of homicide committed by husbands or boyfriends are preceded by stalking.

Domestic violence stalkers have a need to control their victims. Prior to the women leaving an abusive relationship with such an individual, he typically tries to control ever aspect of her life, including finances, and friendships. Disobedience is subject to verbal, physical or emotional retaliation against her and/or her children. When a victim leaves the relationship, he interprets this loss of control and is preconditioned to attempt reasserting control by whatever means necessary, including stalking, often coupled with violence. Stalking can be seen the logical method for the psychopath to reassert control. The terror felt by the victim is hard to exaggerate. This has been described as psychological war. Tactics vary enormously.

Some stalkers simply trail their victims continuously. Many others destroy or vandalize property, send packages or deliveries often of inappropriate or bizarre items, poison or kill pets or children, use phone threats, and contact employers, neighbors, and relatives, making normal life impossible.​

Research is now showing that stalking by itself is a strong predictor of subsequent, often uncontrolled violence against the victim, her family, bystanders, and even the offender. Murder and suicidal rage are not uncommon.​