New Jersey has defined domestic violence as the occurrence of one or more of the following criminal acts committed by an adult or emancipated minor:  homicide, terroristic threats, kidnapping, assault, criminal restraint, sexual assault, false imprisonment, lewdness, criminal mischief, burglary, harassment, stalking, criminal trespass or criminal sexual contact.  As you can see, not every instance of domestic violence needs to be physical.  So many times I have spoke to women and men who think they are not victims of domestic violence simply because they have not been physically abused by their spouse or significant other.  Harassing phone calls, text messages, mental abuse or threatening words can be just as harmful as a fist.  

    If you feel you are being abused by your significant other, there are many places you can go for help.  Please visit http://www.njcbw.org/guide.htm#top to find help in your county.