Which of the following is an example of physical violence against a partner?

• A. Verbal abuse
• B. Punching
• C. Emotional intimidation
• D. Withholding money

Answer: (B)

Physical violence involves using physical force to harm or threaten harm against a partner. Punching fits this definition because it is directly striking a person with a fist, which can cause injury and fear. The other options are forms of abuse that do not involve physical harm: verbal abuse uses harmful words, emotional intimidation targets a person’s feelings and sense of safety, and withholding money is a form of economic control. These are serious and abusive, but they are not physical violence by themselves.