Domestic abuse can happen to anyone. Some people may not even realise they are experiencing one of the many forms of domestic abuse.
You shouldn’t need to wait for an emergency to get help. If you’re a victim of domestic abuse, it’s important to report your situation as soon as possible. Please remember that you are not alone, and it’s highly unlikely that it’s your fault.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the different types of abuse and the warning signs to look out for.
Domestic abuse can come in many forms
Domestic abuse is recognised as a pattern of incidents that usually involve controlling, threatening and violent behaviour towards another individual. It may be carried out by a partner, ex-partner, carer, or family member.
Any form of domestic abuse is considered a crime, it isn’t just restricted to physical violence. If reported, the police can take protective action to prosecute your abuser and keep you safe.
The different types of domestic abuse
Abuse comes in many forms, and it must be noted that it is never the victim’s fault. Some of the most common types of domestic abuse include:
- Physical: This involves intentional physical violence to an individual, such as scratching, punching, kicking, burning, and biting.
- Emotional: Emotional or psychological abuse involves the abuser making the deliberate attempt to threaten, insult, humiliate, isolate, or stalk their victim. Gaslighting is also a form of emotional abuse.
- Sexual: Sexual abuse refers to any act that pressures an individual to do something sexually that they don’t want to.
- Financial: This subtle form of abuse usually involves the abuser attempting to control every aspect of their victim’s finances. They may have access to your bank account, prevent you from going to work, or max out your credit cards without permission.
- Coercive control: This involves a pattern of intimidation, isolation and control using physical or sexual violence.
- Digital abuse: Texting and social networking can be used to bully, harass, or stalk an individual. This form of abuse is either verbal or emotional and is perpetrated online.
What to do if you are experiencing domestic abuse
If you’re currently a victim of domestic abuse, you must aim to seek help as soon as possible. Try to communicate your concerns to close family and friends. Alternatively, call 999 in an emergency.
There are also several helplines available for domestic abuse victims. Women and children experiencing abuse should call National Domestic Abuse on 0808 2000 247. Men can get in touch with the Men’s Advice Line on 0808 8010 327.
If you’re trying to get a divorce from an abusive partner, you can seek legal advice from specialist domestic abuse solicitors, who will treat your case with professionalism and empathy. Expert lawyers will be sensitive to your situation and offer you the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.
