What is Domestic Violence (intimate partner violence)?

(Defined by the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence)

A pattern of controlling behavior (not isolated incidents of physical abuse)

In the context of a current or former relationship

When one person uses intimidating, threatening, harmful, or harassing behavior designed to create fear in the victim

Purposeful and chosen (not out of control)

Based on a belief system that the abuser has the right to limit the human and civil rights of the victim

LGBTQ+ Abuse

LGBTQ+ people experience partner abuse at rates similar to or higher than heterosexual and/or cisgender people.

Bisexual and transgender individuals are at particularly high risk.

“LGBTQ+ IPV...has unique characteristics, including the types of abusive tactics used and the context of discrimination and social stigma faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.”

From “Trauma-Informed Approaches for LGBQT* Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence,” June 2016

Resources and Supports

Toll-free 24-hour Crisis Hotline

Midcoast Maine

1-800-522-3304

National DV Hotline

1-800-799-7233

www.thehotline.org

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

New Hope for Women

(Serves men, women and non-binary)

Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence

Family Violence Project

This website is still currently under development, more resources are coming soon!