In domestic violence cases, which factor is a key determinant of the dominant aggressor?

• A. The Aggressor's Height
• B. The Victim's Age
• C. History of DV and Fear-Based Control
• D. Time Since The Incident

Answer: (C)

Understanding who is the dominant aggressor centers on recognizing patterns of control. The clearest indicator is the history of domestic violence and fear-based control—the repeated use of threats, intimidation, and coercive tactics aimed at maintaining power over the other person. This ongoing pattern shows who is driving the abuse and preserving control in the relationship, which is what investigators consider when identifying the primary aggressor. Physical size or age doesn’t determine who holds power, and the time elapsed since the last incident doesn’t reveal whether a long-standing cycle of coercion exists. By focusing on the history of abuse and the victim’s fear, you identify the main aggressor and address safety and accountability accordingly.