What is Domestic Violence & Dating Violence?
Domestic Violence:
Domestic Violence is a pattern of behavior in a current or former intimate relationship, family relationship, or cohabitating relationship that is used to gain or maintain power over another person. It can include physical, sexual, emotional, or financial abuse, as well as threats, intimidation and coercion.
Download Domestic Violence Myths & Facts Flyer
Dating Violence:
Dating Violence is a type of domestic violence that occurs within a dating or romantic relationship. It involves behaviors that are intended to control, intimidate or harm a partner, including physical, sexual, emotional or digital abuse, and can occur in both casual and serious relationships.
Download Dating Violence Myths & Facts Flyer
What are signs of DV?
You do not have to report your experience to the University or other legal authorities to get support. Victim Advocates are here for you whether or not you choose to report. The choice is yours.
Support Measures
- Safety Planning: Work with a Victim Advocate to create a plan that includes safe places to go. Items to keep ready, and steps to take in an emergency
- Emergency Contacts: Identify trusted friends, or family who can check in or support you in urgent situations
- Counseling & Victim Advocacy: Free & confidential support is available through House of Ruth Victim Advocates or through CAPS
Reporting Measures
Domestic Violence Advocates:
- If you decide to report to Title IX, Campus Safety, or Law Enforcement, a domestic violence Victim Advocate can accompany you or give you more information. Victim Advocates are confidential, trained professionals who provide support, guidance, safety planning, and access to resources. Communications with domestic violence Victim Advocates are protected under California Law (Penal Code 679.05 and California Evidence Code 1037.5), meaning what you share with them stays private and confidential.
Legal Protection:
- Campus No-Contact Orders: Title IX can help with “No Contact” orders on campus. Contact the Title IX office for details
- Community Restraining Orders: A Domestic Violence Advocate can help you file a restraining order. For more info visit: DV Restraining Order or contact a Domestic Violence Victim Advocate
Self-Care & Healing
Healing after harm isn’t one-size-fits all. Some days feel harder than others and that’s okay. Small steps matter. Here are a few ways students can care for themselves:
- Talk to someone you trust- a friend, counselor or a Victim Advocate
- Take care of your body- rest, eat, move gently.
- Do things that calm you- journaling, music, or deep breathing.
- Set boundaries- step back from people or situations that feel unsafe.
You are not alone. Support is available whenever you need it.
Additional Resources
- YWCA : “Young Women’s Christian Association”- Domestic Violence Shelter & Hotline
- National DV Hotline
- Womens Law.org : Legal Resources
- Los Angeles LGBT Center
- Grounding Techniques
