What is domestic abuse?
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Domestic abuse is abuse that takes place within an intimate or family-type relationship. It can be carried out by a current or ex-partner, their family members, your own family members, or the parent of your child. An abuser might involve other family members, friends or members of the community in their abuse.
Abuse is abuse, whether it consists of a single incident or a long-term pattern of behaviour. The definitions below will help you to understand whether you, or someone you know, is experiencing domestic abuse.
Controlling or coercive behaviour
Coercive control is a pattern of behaviour used by abusers to instil fear and restrict freedom. It underpins all forms of domestic abuse.
Coercive control involves an abuser repeatedly behaving in a way that makes you feel controlled, dependent, isolated, or scared. The following types of behaviour are common examples of coercive control:
- Isolating you from your friends and family;
- Restricting or monitoring your activities and your mov...
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