The aim of this paper is to describe domestic violence, and how it has manifested itself throughout history and today. Historical and literary sources document various forms of violence within the family community. Although some forms of violence in different cultures and civilizations have been accepted and legal throughout history, today, thanks to the development of social consciousness, they are considered illegal and meet with social disapproval. Children, partners and the elderly are exposed to domestic violence. The most common in the family is physical, emotional, sexual or economic abuse. For centuries, adult male family members have had the undisputed right to control and set rules of conduct for women and children within the family. Men were able to make decisions about their lives and deaths, and domestic violence was an everyday occurrence in society at the time. Throughout history, domestic violence has been considered a private problem, but it is increasingly becoming a public problem. Over the years, women fought for their rights, became equal members of the family, and the family began to be considered a place of security, love, and respect. Although the family should act as such, there are still many families today where violence still exists. It is for this reason that many experts nowadays pay the utmost attention to this problem.