Under Indian law, specifically the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, domestic violence is defined in a broad and inclusive manner. The Act recognizes several types of abuse beyond just physical violence, acknowledging the various forms in which women can suffer within a domestic relationship. Here are the main types of domestic violence recognized by the law: 1. Physical Abuse This includes any act or conduct that causes bodily pain, harm, danger to life, health, or development. It involves assault, criminal intimidation, and use of physical force such as beating, slapping, kicking, or pushing. 2. Sexual Abuse This refers to any conduct of a sexual nature that abuses, humiliates, degrades, or otherwise violates the dignity of a woman. It includes forced sexual intercourse or any unwanted sexual acts. 3. Verbal and Emotional Abuse This includes insults, name-calling, ridicule, humiliation, and threats to cause physical pain. It also includes repeated accusations of infidelity or not producing a male child, and preventing the woman from taking up employment. 4. Economic Abuse This refers to the deprivation of financial resources necessary for survival, such as: Not providing money for maintenance or basic needs Denying access to household finances Preventing the woman from working or controlling her income Disposing of her assets or stridhan (dowry and gifts) 5. Psychological Abuse Though not separately listed in the Act, psychological abuse is often inferred from emotional and verbal abuse. It includes manipulation, constant criticism, and isolation from friends or family. 6. Threats or Acts of Intimidation Threatening behavior, whether to harm the woman, her children, or other relatives, also falls under domestic violence. Even if physical harm has not occurred, threats alone are actionable under the law. 7. Harassment for Dowry Repeated demands for dowry, or harassment linked to dowry issues, are considered domestic violence and are also punishable under separate criminal laws like Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code. Conclusion: The law recognizes that domestic violence is not limited to physical harm—it can be mental, emotional, sexual, or financial. The Act provides legal remedies and protection to women facing any of these abuses, including protection orders, residence rights, and financial relief.