Abuse is not only physical, but it always hurts. Domestic violence is one of the leading causes of premature death. The offender is not always the killer, but the actions of the offender can be fatal. Sometimes the pressures of abuse may cause the victim to commit suicide, die of heart attack, or possibly stroke. People who are exposed to domestic violence often experience physical, mental, or spiritual shifts that worsen over time if not properly addressed. The key elements of domestic abuse are intimidation, humiliating the other person and physical injuries. The offender is very persuasive, charming, handsome, and most times established. The offender appears to be a standup guy until he has full control of the relationship. Many offenders start with expensive gifts, lavish dates and surprise vacations. The victim is vulnerable, dependent, self-conscious, and intrigued at what the offender has to offer. A disproportionate amount of domestic abuse victims come from a broken home; some of the victims come from a sheltered life. Some victims never experienced true love, and some victims have already been subject to abuse before adulthood. There is no easy solution to domestic violence as its elimination requires changes in the very nature of society. Until people develop a sense of respect for others and recognition of the worth each individual, violence will continue and the weaker people of the community will largely be the victims.

The offender often suffers from excessive alcohol addiction. Majority of offenders grew up in an abusive house hold. Offenders are obsessive compulsive individuals. They get a kick out of controlling others. The offender wants to feel a sense of domination. Some offende4rs are from well-kept homes and are used to having their way. Abuse is widely accepted in some families. Many people make excuses as to why a person is abusive.