What is domestic violence? The Government defines domestic violence as "Any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional.” Domestic violence can also take place in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender relationships. Domestic violence is repetitive, life-threatening, and can destroy the lives of individuals.

Why does domestic violence occur? There are different types of abuse (emotional, physical, sexual, financial, etc.), but it is always about having control and power over someone.

How common is domestic violence? Domestic violence is very common. Research shows that it can affect one in four women in their lifetimes, regardless of age, social class, race, disability or lifestyle. On average high-risk victims live with domestic abuse for 2.6 years before getting help.

Can it happen to anyone? Rihanna: “Chris was my first big love..... In an American TV interview, Rihanna has finally opened up about being attacked by Chris Brown. She said: “He was definitely my first big love,” and went on to warn: “This happened to me. It can happen to anyone.”

Consider the following questions: Discussion. You are going to watch two interviews: one with Rhianna, one with Chris Brown. Consider the following questions: Do you feel sorry for Rhianna? Do you think she provoked Chris Brown? Do you think Chris Brown is remorseful? Do you feel sorry for Chris?

According to ManKind (www.mankind.org.uk), ‘‘Male victims (29%) are over twice as likely than women (12%) to not tell anyone about the partner abuse they are suffering from. Only 10% of male victims will tell the police (26% women), only 23% will tell a person in an official position (43% women) and only 11% (23% women) will tell a health professional.’’

Why is it so taboo amongst boys? The recent news that Emma Roberts was arrested for domestic violence in Montreal after a fight with her boyfriend, American Horror Story co-star Evan Peters, is merely the latest celebrity case where the man is the victim. Police were called to their hotel and Evan had a bloody nose, and one source reported a bite mark. Emma was arrested, but Evan did not press charges so she was released. Emma is the daughter of actor Eric Roberts and the niece of Julia Roberts and was a child star on the Nickelodeon series Unfabulous.

24-hour National Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline 0808 2000 247 Who can I talk to? the police a friend your doctor a family member a close neighbour a teacher you feel able to talk to a helpline such as Child line. There are lots of really good websites such as the Hideout website (http://thehideout.org.uk/children/home/) 24-hour National Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline 0808 2000 247