Intimate Violence: Facts & Definitions

TYPES OF VIOLENCE

• Physical Abuse
  • Starts with "playful" pinches or shoving.
  • Escalates into punching, shaking, burning with cigarettes, etc.
• Sexual Abuse
  • Partner rape - forced or coerced sexual activity.
  • After a bout of violence, the abuse may feel remorse or guilt. To soothe those feelings he may want to "make love." Because she fears further violence, the abused partner gives in.
• Psychological Abuse
  • Constant attack of self esteem.
  • Abuser will use verbal attacks to make the abused partner feel worthless.
  • Once her self esteem is broken down, the abused begins feeling responsible for the beatings and that she deserved what happened to her.
• Social Isolation
  • Abuser monopolizes their partners time.
  • May behave obnoxiously to drive away social contact or embarrass their partner so she'll isolate herself from friends and family.
  • Denial of transportation.
  • Move family away from family and friends.
• Economic Deprivation
  • May deny their partner the right to work.
  • One instead of separate bank accounts.