Domestic abuse is violence or other abuse that occurs in a domestic setting. It is another term for intimate partner violence which is committed by one of the people in an intimate relationship against the other person and can take place in relationships or between former spouses or partners. In its broadest sense, domestic violence also involves violence against children, parents, or the elderly. It can assume multiple forms, including physical, verbal, emotional, economic, or sexual abuse/violence.
Does your partner, ex-partner, or someone you live with, now or in the past:
- Cut you off from family and friends and intentionally isolate you?
- Bully, threaten, or control you?
- Take control of your finances?
- Monitor or limit your use of technology?
- Physically and/or sexually abuse you?
Domestic abuse is not always physical violence. It can also include:
- Coercive control and ‘gaslighting’ ;
- Economic abuse ;
- Online abuse ;
- Threats and intimidation ;
- Emotional abuse ;
- Sexual abuse.
Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status, sexuality, or background.
If you believe that you are a victim of domestic abuse, there are signs that you can look out for including:
- Being withdrawn, or isolated from your family and friends .
- Having bruises, burns, or bite marks on you .
- Having your finances controlled, or not being given enough to buy food, medication, or pay bills.
- Not being allowed to leave your house, or stopped from going to college or work .
- Having your internet or social media use monitored, or someone else reading your texts, emails, or letters .
- Being repeatedly belittled, put down, or told you are worthless .
- Being pressured into sex or sexual contact .
- Being told that abuse is your fault, or that you’re overreacting .
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All forms of domestic abuse are not acceptable in any situation.
If you’re experiencing domestic abuse and feel frightened of, or controlled by, a partner, an ex-partner, or a family member, it’s important to remember that it’s not your fault and there is no shame in seeking help.
It may seem like a difficult step to take, especially if the abuse is from the past, but this still can affect your everyday life.