Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner abuse, is best understood as a pattern of abusive behaviorsāincluding physical, sexual, and psychological abuse as well as economic coercionāused by one intimate partner against another to gain, maintain, or regain power and control in the relationship. If you are concerned about a relationship you are in or have been, or if you are concerned about a friendās relationship please contact CUās Office of Victim Assistance.