At what point does an argument turn into abuse? For many victims of long-term domestic abuse, coming to the realization that the partner they love is an abuser can be a difficult journey. Many victims practice denial in order to keep their family together, and in many cases it takes a friend or loved one to help bring the abuse to light.
In an effort to reach out to families affected by domestic abuse, the caring, compassionate domestic abuse attorneys on this website provide important education on the different types of domestic abuse and what to look for. Once you understand and are able to recognize the signs of domestic abuse, you can help those around you who may be suffering.
Most people understand domestic abuse to mean physical violence. While this is the most common type of domestic abuse, there are several other ways partners can cause harm. Hiring a domestic abuse lawyer can help victims and their loved ones learn more about the manifestations of abuse and their options for fighting back. All of the examples described here are illegal behaviors that can be prosecuted in a court of law.
Physical Abuse
Domestic violence can occur in any sort of physical capacity, including kicking, punching, slapping, biting, shoving, and restraining. Sometimes abusers will extend physical violence to elder abuse or child abuse.
Emotional Abuse
Abusive partners use emotional abuse to restrict independence, encourage co-dependency, and diminish self-worth. Examples of emotional abuse include threats of physical violence, public embarrassment, name-calling, blaming, chastising, yelling, and other methods of degradation.
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse is a form of abuse where a spouse or partner uses money to control the other person. This can be especially damaging in situations where the abuser is the sole income earner and the victim feels trapped.
Examples of financial abuse include stealing, withholding money or credit cards in exchange for certain behaviors, taking away certain necessities, setting allowances, and other financial restrictions used to manipulate. An abuser may also forbid the other person to seek employment, further perpetuating the co-dependency.
Sexual Abuse
Forcing sexual acts against a partner’s will is illegal sexual abuse, regardless of whether the couple is dating or married.
Domestic abuse can happen in any type of relationship, regardless of age, ethnicity, or economic status. Both men and women may be guilty of abuse, as well as same-sex partners. If you or someone you love has become the victim of abuse at home, please search our list of domestic abuse lawyers to find a legal professional near you who can help.