Common Domestic Violence Types

Common Domestic Violence Types

The number of marriages that end due to varied forms of domestic violence is alarming. In fact, it is estimated that approximately 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence at some point during their lives. This doesn’t mean that men, too, aren’t victims of domestic violence. In fact, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), men make up 40% of all domestic violence victims.

Domestic violence is a serious matter, and it can affect anyone—including you. The first step to taking control of your life is recognizing the signs so that you can seek help if necessary.

There are many different types of this complex issue. Beneath we will go over a few for you to recognize for a potential resolution to your situation.

Emotional Abuse

This is when someone manipulates, belittles or isolates their partner to control them. Emotional abuse is also known as psychological abuse. Emotional abuse can come in many forms and is not always obvious. Some examples include:

• Name-calling or insults
• Withholding affection or attention to punish the other person
• Making fun of your partner’s appearance or interests
• Threatening to hurt themselves if you don’t do what they want
• Making your partner feel like they are crazy or stupid Isolation from friends, family or anyone else they might talk to about the abuse
• Making up rules that have to be followed in order for your partner to do things like go out with friends or talk on the phone

All of these are obviously unacceptable behaviors, but emotional abuse is often harder to identify than other forms of abuse. Emotional abuse can also be more difficult to leave because it’s not always easy to prove that something has happened.

If you have been emotionally abused, there are some steps you can take to get help or support.

Physical Abuse

When someone hits, kicks, slaps or otherwise hurts another person in a way that causes bodily harm, this is considered physical abuse.

Physical abuse can be the most obvious and easiest form of abuse to identify. Physical abuse is often accompanied by other forms of abuse, like emotional or financial. It’s very important that you take steps to protect yourself from physical harm if you recognize that you’re being abused.

Sexual Assault

Any forced sexual contact without consent from either party can be considered sexual assault—even if it’s just one time and the victim doesn’t sustain any injuries.

Sexual assault is a serious crime, and it often goes unreported. Victims may feel shame or guilt about what happened, which can make it difficult to come forward with the truth. Sexual assault can happen to anyone at any age and doesn’t just involve physical contact. Even in a marriage, sexual assault is a crime. If you’re being abused, it’s important to know that there is help available.

Conclusion for Domestic Violence Types

Domestic violence is a crime and a serious offense. The victim of domestic violence may feel afraid, helpless and alone. There are many resources available to help victims escape from their abusive situations and start over with a fresh start.

If you or someone you know has been the victim of domestic violence, please contact your nearest sheriff’s office for assistance or visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website.

But, if you’re seeking legal aid to separate from an abusive spouse, our team at Thompson Law can help you navigate this stressful resolution.