What Counts as Domestic Abuse?
Not many people are aware that they might be in a domestic abuse situation until it’s too late. And even then, they might convince themselves that everything is okay and that they can work things out with their partner. But knowing what domestic abuse is can help you to get yourself out of a bad situation.
What Is Domestic Abuse?
Also known as “intimate partner violence,” it is a pattern of behavior that is used to gain power or control over a person’s partner. It can take the form of physical, emotional, sexual, psychological, or economic, all to exert influence over the other person. It can happen to anyone of any age, race, sexual orientation, or gender. That’s why everyone needs to know where to contact domestic violence lawyers Melbourne.
How To Tell If You’re Being Abused
The pattern of behavior mentioned above could include any of the following signs:
- make you feel like you’re unable to make decisions
- make you feel trapped in your relationship
- prevent you from doing things that you want to do, such as spending time with your family
- put down your accomplishments
- make fun of you or embarrass you in front of your friends or family
- blame you for how they feel or act
- use threats or intimidation to gain compliance
- feeling scared of how your partner might behave/react
- try not to do anything that might make your partner angry
There are many more signs to look out for, but if you notice any of these happening in your relationship, then you should definitely reach out to someone to have a conversation. It’s important to remember that no one deserves to be abused.
Emotional Abuse
Physical abuse is pretty easy to recognize; emotional abuse, not so much. Constant criticism can affect a person’s sense of self-worth. It can come in the form of name-calling, belittling their abilities, damaging your relationship with others, or not letting a partner see friends and family. A partner might also try to take control of your finances, withholding affection as punishment, or expecting you to ask permission before doing anything.
Psychological and Financial Abuse
Psychological abuse involves the use of intimidation tactics or fear, such as threatening physical harm to self or children, destruction of property, playing mind games, or forcing isolation from other individuals.
Financial abuse aims to make the victim financially dependent on the abuser by maintaining control over finances and access to money.
What To Do If You Find Yourself In An Abusive Relationship
Don’t sit back and wait for things to get better in your relationship; take immediate action. If you’re in immediate danger, you should call 911. Contact a therapist, contact a shelter or hotline, and keep interactions with a partner in public areas.
Seek support from those around you who you trust, and consider contacting an attorney to help you with any legal matters you might need to take care of. Taking care of things as early as possible can make it easier for you to get out of the relationship safely later.