Eastside Domestic Violence Program

Types of Abuse
It is not always easy to identify domestic violence. The following list does not encompass all types or tactics of abuse but provides a variety of examples. Also, it is not necessary for a person to identify with all, or even several of the examples in order to be in an unsafe situation. Recognizing abuse is the first step to getting help.

Physical abuse occurs when one person uses physical force or the threat of physical force to intimidate, injure or endanger another person. There is a wide range of behaviors that fall into the category of physical abuse, including: pushing, hitting, kicking, grabbing, choking, throwing things, reckless driving, abandoning you in a dangerous place, and assault with a weapon.

Sexual abuse can be defined as any situation in which you are forced to participate in unwanted, unsafe, or degrading sexual activity. Forced sex, even by a spouse or intimate partner with whom you also have consensual sex, is an act of aggression and violence.

Psychological or emotional abuse can be verbal or nonverbal. Emotional abuse includes verbal abuse such as yelling, name-calling, blaming, and shaming; and nonverbal abuse may include behavior such as isolation, intimidation, and controlling. Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse.

Financial abuse is another way an abusive partner may try to gain control over you. Financial abuse can take many forms including:

Denying you access to funds
Having you account for every penny spent
Putting all bills in your name
Demanding your paycheck
Interfering with your work or not letting you work
Taking your car keys or otherwise preventing you from using the car


	© 2009 Eastside Domestic Violence Program 1-425-562-8840 Site by Taproot Foundation