Conflict is inevitable, but combat is optional.
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Conflict is inevitable, but combat is optional.

3 types of non-physical forms of domestic violence

On Behalf of | Jan 20, 2025 | FAMILY LAW - Domestic Violence |

Domestic violence is one of the major factors leading to the breakdown of marriages. However, most people only associate domestic violence with the physical aspect, overlooking other equally damaging forms of abuse that can happen within intimate relationships. 

In reality, domestic violence involves much more than physical harm, including various forms of non-physical abuse that can be just as devastating to victims. These include: 

1. Financial and economic abuse

This form of domestic violence happens when one partner exercises complete control over the other partner’s economic resources. This includes restricting access to bank accounts, withholding money for basic necessities, preventing the victim from working or pursuing education, forcing them to account for every penny spent, putting all assets in the abuser’s name or deliberately accumulating debt in the victim’s name. The perpetrator uses this control to create financial dependency and make it extremely difficult for the victim to leave the relationship.

2. Psychological/mental abuse

This type of abuse involves systematic patterns of behavior aimed at undermining the victim’s self-worth and independence. It includes constant criticism, humiliation, gaslighting, manipulation, isolation from friends and family, threats and extreme controlling behavior. The abuser may also use children as leverage or threaten to harm pets to maintain control. Over time, this erosion of self-esteem and confidence can leave lasting mental scars that are often harder to heal than physical wounds.

3. Digital or online abuse

This increasingly common form of domestic violence involves using technology and digital platforms to control, stalk, harass or humiliate the victim. It includes monitoring the victim’s online activities, hacking their accounts, installing spyware on their devices, sharing intimate photos without consent, sending threatening messages or using social media to track their location and movements. The perpetrator may also use digital means to isolate the victim by controlling their communications with others or spreading false information online to damage their reputation.

Seeking legal guidance can be a crucial first step for victims of any form of domestic violence, as many of these non-physical abuse tactics are recognized by law and can be addressed through protective orders, divorce proceedings and criminal charges where applicable.

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