Domestic violence is typically characterised by a wide range of controlling behaviours. An offence committed in the context of domestic violence is usually part of a larger picture of repeated and multifaceted physical, mental and emotional abuse in which the perpetrator uses tactics aimed at gaining power, control and dominance over the victim. A domestic violence victim is often so enveloped by fear that they are incapable of either escaping the violence or reporting it to the authorities. Victims may also accept blame or forgive the offender contrary to their own physical and emotional well-being.