Abuse

Domestic abuse is the domination of one person by another in a relationship. Domestic violence is when this turns into something more physical. Abuse and violence are all about control and rarely have anything to do with losing one’s temper; in fact, most abusers are very calculated in their actions. Here are the different forms of abuse or violence which may be used individually or in combination with one another to exact control: 

Psychological – Verbal abuse, shouting, shaming, isolating and controlling behaviour which can often spill over into threats or actions of physical violence. Just because you do not have the bruises to prove it, the emotional scars can sometimes be far deeper and take longer to heal.

Physical – Hitting, slapping, chocking, throwing objects or using other things to strike your partner. This is the stereotypical view of domestic violence and involves an action that physically harms your significant other.

Sexual – Forced sex, even with someone that you have consenting sex with at other times, is still a form of abuse. Statistically, between a third and half of those who are physically abused will also be put through some form of sexual abuse by their partners.

Financial – Domestic violence and abuse are all about control, and one of the most effective ways of controlling someone is to deny or regulate their finances, spending their money, denying or sabotaging their career prospects, etc.

Women are more than five times more likely to be the victim of domestic abuse and violence than men. Domestic violence is not restricted to heterosexual relationships; those in same-sex relationships can be victims and abusers as well. Domestic violence and abuse can affect those from all walks of life and start at any age or stage in a relationship. If you are worried about domestic violence or abuse you should contact your local police station, or if you are concerned for your safety call the emergency services on 999.