Which term describes acts of violence where the perpetrator aims to exercise power over the victim?

The term that best describes acts of violence where the perpetrator aims to exercise power over the victim is closely aligned with the concept of sexual assaults. Sexual assault encompasses a range of non-consensual sexual acts, often motivated by a desire to exert control and dominance over the victim. This type of violence is frequently about power dynamics, where the perpetrator seeks to establish superiority and manipulate the victim through fear and coercion.

In contrast, while other terms such as interpersonal violence, crimes of passion, or domestic violence might involve elements of power and control, they do not specifically capture the intent to dominate that is inherent in sexual assaults. Interpersonal violence is more general and includes a variety of violent behaviors between individuals. Crimes of passion typically refer to impulsive acts of violence often resulting from emotional turmoil but do not necessarily reflect the intent to exercise ongoing power. Domestic violence, while it involves power and control as well, primarily focuses on violence within intimate relationships, encompassing physical, emotional, and psychological abuse, but is broader in scope than sexual assault alone.