Understanding Domestic Abuse
Abuse is a pattern of behavior used by one person to gain and maintain power and control over another. It can happen to anyone, and it is never the victim's fault.Domestic violence includes physical violence, but it is often accompanied by emotionally abusive and controlling behavior. These actions are not random; they are part of a system of dominance. It is not always obvious at the start of a relationship, as abuse often starts slowly and gets worse over time.
Is Abuse Always Physical
No. Emotional and psychological abuse can be just as damaging as physical violence.
The absence of physical harm does not make the abuse less serious or the abuser less dangerous.
The goal is always control.
What are the Different Forms of Abuse
Abuse can take many forms. An abuser may use a combination of these tactics to control their partner.
Emotional & Psychological Abuse
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Telling you that you can never do anything right.
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Embarrassing or shaming you with put-downs.
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Controlling who you see, where you go, or what you do.
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Telling you that you are a bad parent or threatening to take away your children.
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Looking at you or acting in ways that scare you.
Financial Abuse
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Controlling every penny spent in the household.
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Taking your money or refusing to give you money for expenses.
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Preventing you from working or attending school.
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Harassing you at your job so you perform badly or get fired.
Digital Abuse & Stalking
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Monitoring your every move, either in person or with GPS tracking.
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Controlling your social media or reading your emails and texts without permission.
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Stalking you online or in person.
Physical & Sexual Abuse
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Intimidating you with weapons like guns or knives.
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Destroying your property.
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Pressuring you to have sex when you don’t want to.
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Forcing you to do sexual things you are not comfortable with.
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Refusing to use protection or sabotaging birth control.
What Happens When the Relationship Ends?
Leaving an abusive relationship does not always stop the abuse. Often, the abuse gets worse because the abuser feels they are losing control. The most dangerous time for a victim is often right after they leave.
Ending abuse is not about a victim "choosing to leave." It is about a victim being able to safely escape and the abuser being held accountable for their actions.
Contact Us Today
Say Your Name Inc.
301-751-2748
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Text BEGIN to 88788
National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-7233