Types of Domestic Abuse

We tend to think of Domestic Abuse as physical violence or assault on a wife. In reality, however, domestic abuse is the summary of physically, sexually and psychologically abusive behaviours directed by one partner against another, regardless of their marital status or gender. Generally, when one form of abuse exists, it is coupled with other forms as well.

Domestic Abuse does not just affect people of a certain race, age, gender or background, but knows no ethnic, cultural or personal borders.

Domestic abuse may also be defined by identifying its function, that being the domination, punishment or control of one's partner. Abusers use physical and sexual violence, threats, money, emotional and psychological abuse to control their partners and get their way.

Sometimes Domestic Abuse is better understood by it's effect on the victim than by the specific actions of the abuser.

Abuse in the home is not a rare problem, it is just rarely admitted as one.

Check out the Wheel of Power and Control, which provides a visual representation of the interconnection of the differing forms of abuse.

Next: Physical Abuse