Domestic and family violence occurs in all sections of our community, across all cultures and in all types of relationships (e.g. lesbian, gay, heterosexual). Being abused is NOT a normal part of domestic and/or family life.
Domestic and family violence occurs when someone in an intimate or familial relationship attempts to gain and/or maintain power and control over another through a wide range of abusive behaviours:
- PHYSICAL - punching, pushing, being injured with objects/weapons etc.
- VERBAL - constant put-downs, name calling etc.
- SEXUAL - any forced or unwanted sexual contact/activity etc.
- SOCIAL - controlling where you go, who you see, geographically isolating you.
- FINANCIAL - being refused/denied access to money etc.
- DAMAGE TO PROPERTY - kicking a hole in the wall, scratching your car etc.
- PSYCHOLOGICAL - behavior and/or comments to undermine your sense of self etc.
- SPIRITUAL/CULTURAL - not allowing you to practise your chosen religion or cultural beliefs.
- STALKING - worrying or frightening you by watching, phoning or following you. Stalking is a crime.
- HETEROSEXIST CONTROL - threatening to 'out' you to others where you have chosen not to come out, or feel it is unsafe to do so etc.
