As
domestic violence awareness has increased, it has
become evident that abuse can occur within a number
of relationships. The laws in many states cover incidents
of violence occurring between married couples, as
well as abuse of elders by family members, abuse between
roommates, dating couples and those in lesbian and
gay relationships.
In an abusive relationship, the abuser may use a number
of tactics other than physical violence in order to
maintain power and control over his or her partner:
Emotional
and Verbal Abuse:
Survivors of domestic violence recount stories of
put-downs, public humiliation, name-calling, mind
games and manipulation by their partners. Many say
that the emotional abuse they have suffered has left
the deepest scars.
Isolation:
It is common for an abuser to be extremely jealous,
and insist that the victim not see her friends or
family members. The resulting feeling of isolation
may then be increased for the victim if she loses
her job as a result of absenteeism or decreased productivity
(which are often associated with people who are experiencing
domestic violence).
Threats
and Intimidation:
Threats including threats of violence, suicide, or
of taking away the children are a very common tactic
employed by the batterer.
The
existence of emotional and verbal abuse, attempts
to isolate, and threats and intimidation within a
relationship may be an indication that physical abuse
is to follow. Even if they are not accompanied by
physical abuse, the effect of these incidents must
not be minimized.
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