Relationship abuse is a pattern of behaviors used to gain or maintain power and control over a partner and it can show up in different ways. More than one type of abuse usually occur in an abusive relationship. Understanding how abuse occurs can help you safely respond to situations. Below is information about some types of abuse.
Physical abuse
Physical abuse is one of the first forms of violence people think of when they hear the words domestic violence. Physical abuse occurs when behaviors are clearly intended to render the victim powerless and to gain control in the relationship. It can range from throwing objects or blocking doorways to violent attacks or strangulation.
Strangulation
Strangulation is among the most lethal forms of domestic violence – and being strangled increases the risk of being killed in the future by 750%. Along with an alarming increase in reported strangulations in Western New York, these cases are being documented as more severe, and the number of domestic violence agency clients at high risk or extreme risk of lethality – death – is growing.
Sexual abuse
Coercing or attempting to coerce any sexual contact or behavior without consent. Sexual abuse includes, but is certainly not limited to, marital rape, attacks on sexual parts of the body, forcing sex after physical violence has occurred, or treating one in a sexually demeaning manner.
Psychological abuse
Elements of psychological abuse include - but are not limited to - causing fear by intimidation; threatening physical harm to self, partner, children, or partner's family or friends; destruction of pets and property; and forcing isolation from family, friends, or school and/or work.
Other types of abuse
There are many other types of abuse. Visit the National Domestic Violence website for more information and types of abuse.