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What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse encompasses various forms of harm such as sexual, physical, emotional, psychological, and financial abuse. It often manifests as controlling and coercive behaviour, which typically does not occur just once but escalates and becomes more frequent over time.

Coersion and control

Coercive behaviour includes a range of actions including, but not limited to, manipulation, stalking, neglect, excessive jealousy, surveillance or restriction of activities, control over financial resources, isolation, and unreasonable demands. These actions are characterised as acts or patterns of assault, threats, humiliation, and intimidation, or other abuses aimed to harm, punish, or frighten the victim.

Additional forms such as ‘honour’ based violence, female genital mutilation (FGM), and forced marriage also fall under this umbrella, affecting individuals across all genders and ethnic backgrounds.

Controlling behaviour involves tactics intended to make someone subordinate and/or dependent. This includes isolating them from sources of support, exploiting their resources for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance, and escape, and regulating their everyday behaviour.

Recognising abuse

In a healthy relationship, you should not be subjected to destructive criticism, mocking, or derogatory name-calling. You should not be dictated where you can go, deprived of your personal choices, or live in fear of being reported to social services or mental health authorities by your partner.

These examples point to more significant concerns than mere relationship difficulties. If you are uncertain about whether you are in a situation of domestic abuse, please reach out for a discussion with us.

Domestic abuse can take various forms, each with specific characteristics:

Sexual Abuse

Involves any non-consensual sexual act or behaviour towards the victim. This can include unwanted touching, rape, or forcing the victim to engage in sexual acts against their will.

Physical Abuse

Characterised by the use of physical force that can cause bodily injury, pain, or impairment. This can range from slapping and beating to severe physical assaults and can result in visible injuries and long-term physical damage.

Emotional Abuse

This subtle form of abuse involves attempts to undermine an individual's sense of self-worth or self-esteem through persistent criticism, belittling one's abilities, name-calling, or damaging one's relationship with their children.

Psychological Abuse

Includes a range of behaviours aimed at instilling fear, anxiety, or dependency in the victim. Tactics include intimidation, threats, isolation from friends and family, and controlling what the victim can and cannot do.

Financial/Economic Abuse

This occurs when the abuser controls the victim’s financial resources, withholding access to money, or forbidding attendance at school or employment. It can result in complete financial dependence on the abuser.

Coercive Behaviour

Acts as a way to harm, punish, or frighten the victim, ensuring they are subordinate and dependent. This includes isolating them from support, exploiting their resources, and regulating their everyday activities.