Using money to force anyone to do what you want them to do.
We recommned speaking to an online professional that specifically focuses on abuse. Our professionals can assist with pinpointing what abuse you are experiencing in your life, how to deal with it, and how to get out of any abusive relationship.
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What is Abuse?
Abuse is any behaviour that is used to control, harm, or intimidate another person. - often with harmful intent.
Abuse can range from physical violence to emotional manipulative behaviour, and it can be inflicted on people of any age, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity or socio-economic status.
If you or someone you know has experienced any abuse, it's important to seek help.
What Is Physical Abuse?
It is defined as the intentional use of physical force which causes or has the potential to cause harm to another person.
Physical abuse can take many different forms depending upon the abuser's relationship with their victim. For example, it often manifests as domestic violence in intimate relationships such as marriage or dating partnerships. In cases of spousal abuse, physical trauma is only one component.
Stockholm Syndrome
Often the person being physically abused stay with the abuser as the abusee develop positive feelings towards the abuser.
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Here are some acts that are considered physical abuse
Kicking
Punching
Slapping
Pinching
Choking
Burning
hurting
scratching
Emotional Abuse & Psychological Abuse
Emotional/psychological abuse is a type of abuse that people don't always consider as abuse. It can be just as bad as physical abuse because it hurts people's feelings and makes them feel worthless & scared.
The abuser might do things like:
ignoring the victim's needs,
not be happy when the victim does something good,
or say mean things to the victim.
One consequence of emotional/psychological abuse is that it makes someone feel bad about themselves. They might have trouble trusting people again after experiencing this type of mistreatment.
Blame-shifting is also a common tactic an abuser may use and can reinforce a sense of responsibility for their abusors behaviours.
Psychological manipulation
Manipulating someone in a psychological way means utilizing tactics that are deceptive, flattering, or fear-inducing to gain control over another person. Tactics like lying and evoking guilt can be used as powerful methods of influence.
Gaslighting
Gaslighting is a cruel and destructive type of psychological manipulation that seeks to make victims doubt their own reality, memory, thoughts, or emotions. The abuser will go out of their way to deny facts in order to disrupt the victim's perception of truth and distort their understanding.
Verbal abuse
Verbal abuse is the cruel weaponization of language to control and harm another person. This includes any form of name-calling, insults, or threatening words meant to instill fear & worthlessness in their target.
Isolation
Isolation serves as a method of subordination and control that entails separating an individual from their network, whether it be loved ones, acquaintances, or recreational activities.
Threats and intimidation
Intimidation and coercion are tactics deployed to influence or manipulate someone through the utilization of either explicit or implied threats.
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WHAT IS SEXUAL ABUSE?
Unwanted or unapproved sexual contact and behaviour is called "sexual abuse." This is when someone does something sexual to someone else without that person's full consent. Sexual abuse can include assault, rape, and exploitation. There are many activities that count as sexual abuse. Some examples include:
Rape
Rape is a deplorable act of sexual violence that involves forced penetration without consent, whether it be by a stranger, acquaintance or even someone close to the victim. It can occur in any form such as vaginal, anal or oral.
Child sexual abuse
Child sexual abuse is any form of inappropriate and forced physical intimacy perpetrated against a minor, including exploitation, molestation, or rape.
Sexual exploitation
Sexual exploitation is the misuse of authority or trust for sexual purposes. Prostitution, human trafficking, and creating and sharing child pornography are all examples of this deplorable practice.
Sexual harassment
Unsolicited sexual advances, including spoken words, actions and physical contact constitute as sexual harassment. It can manifest itself in a range of environments ranging from the office to educational institutions to cyberspace.
Sexual assault
Sexual assault is any undesired sexual conduct that occurs without the approval of a victim. It may include fondling, touching, or coercing someone into engaging in a sexual act.
WHAT IS FINANCIAL ABUSE?
Financial abuse is a form of intimate partner violence that often goes unrecognized, but can have devastating consequences. While many people think of physical and psychological abuse as the hallmarks of an abusive relationship, financial coercion and control can be just as damaging.
There are different types of financial abuse. Some examples are when someone in a romantic relationship, family, or even an older person is taken advantage of financially. It is important to be aware of the different types of financial abuse so you can protect yourself and others
Controlling access to financial information
Restricting access to financial data involves barring people from acquiring knowledge about fiscal matters, like bills, bank statements, or investment accounts.
Identity theft
Identity theft is an abhorrent crime wherein someone takes advantage of another person's confidential information, such as their social security number or credit card details, for ill-gotten financial gain.
Fraud
Fraud is an insidious practice, involving lying or misrepresentation to acquire financial gain. An example of fraud includes using somebody else's funds without permission as well as cashing a phony check.
Withholding money
By retaining access to money and other resources, such as credit cards or bank accounts, withholding funds can be a powerful tool of manipulation.
Misusing power of attorney
Exploiting the power of attorney is a disgraceful act in which one person misuses their legal document to manipulate and control another individual's financial matters.
THE IMPACT OF ABUSE
It is essential to recognize that the repercussions of abuse vary considerably from one individual to another, and certain people may experience more serious or long-lasting impacts than others.
Moreover, factors such as poverty, discrimination, and social exclusion can only bolster the devastating impact of mistreatment.
The repercussions of abuse are far-reaching and can linger for years, profoundly impacting a person's physical, mental, and emotional health. Some common effects of abuse include.
Substance abuse
Substance abuse and addiction often emerge as a consequence of trauma, when individuals turn to drugs or alcohol in an effort to deal with the hurt they have endured.
Mental health problems
All forms of abuse can lead to a range of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Along with these difficulties people may suffer from feelings like shame or guilt because they feel responsible for what happened.
Difficulty with relationships
The damaging effects of abuse can leave an individual unable to form and sustain healthy relationships. People who have experienced trauma may find it difficult to trust, develop intimacy, or communicate effectively in romantic partnerships.
Physical health problems
Physical abuse often results in a myriad of physical traumas, from bruises and broken bones to serious head trauma. Furthermore, such mistreatment can have long-term effects on the victim's overall health, resulting in chronic pain or other issues.
Economic impact
Financial abuse can have catastrophic consequences, leaving individuals mired in debt and poverty with severely limited means.
WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS OF ABUSE?
The warning signs of abuse can vary depending on the type of abuse, but here are some common signs to look out for:
Physical abuse
Unexplained bruises, cuts, or other injuries, frequent accidents, wearing clothing that covers the body even in hot weather, using excuses to avoid social events or activities.
Emotional abuse
Constant criticism or belittling, name-calling, isolation from friends and family, controlling behavior, threatening or intimidating language.
Sexual abuse
Unwanted touching, forced sexual activity, coercive behavior, inappropriate comments or jokes.
Financial abuse
Controlling access to money or resources, stealing money or belongings, pressuring someone to sign financial documents.
Psychological abuse
Gaslighting (manipulating someone to doubt their own sanity or memory), threats of harm to oneself or others, blaming the victim for the abuser's behavior, withholding affection or support.
It's important to note that abusive behavior often escalates over time, so early warning signs should not be ignored. If you suspect that you or someone you know may be experiencing abuse, it's important to seek help and support from a trusted friend, family member, or professional. Online therapy can be a convenient and accessible option for individuals seeking support in dealing with abusive relationships.
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Emergency Services
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services, contact the appropriate authorities below.
If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255.
For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crisis related to Covid-19
Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
FAQ
What are my legal rights if I am a victim of abuse?
As a survivor of abuse, you are entitled to seek legal aid by obtaining restraining orders or prosecuting the abuser in court. You also have access to various support services, including counseling and advocacy programs that will help you heal from your trauma. It is important to remember that each country has its own laws regarding domestic violence; for this reason, it's imperative that you reach out to local organizations for information pertinent to your case.
Is it possible for an abuser to stop abusive behaviour?
Those who perpetuate abuse must accept accountability for their actions and be open to obtaining assistance such as therapy or health plans in order to recognize the source of their abusive conduct. Without confronting what lies at the heart of this issue, an abuser has little opportunity to change permanently and end harmful behaviour. Fortunately though, with accessible support and therapeutic care many can overcome adverse habits leading ultimately towards a non-abusive reality.
How can I report abuse to the authorities?
If you are a victim of abuse, it is important to take action and reach out for help - the police, social services agencies like child or adult protective services, and emergency hotlines such as National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 - are all available resources that can provide support and bring an end to any further harm.
What are the warning signs of abuse?
Physical indicators like bruises or broken bones. Other signs are emotional changes, such as fearfulness, anxiety, and depression. It's important to note that abusive behavior often escalates over time, so early warning signs should not be ignored.
How can I protect myself and my children from abuse?
Those who perpetuate abuse must accept accountability for their actions and be open to obtaining assistance such as therapy or health plans in order to recognize the source of their abusive conduct. Without confronting what lies at the heart of this issue, an abuser has little opportunity to change permanently and end harmful behaviour. Fortunately though, with accessible support and therapeutic care many can overcome adverse habits leading ultimately towards a non-abusive reality.
Discover effective ways to heal from the emotional trauma of verbal abuse. Learn how to protect your self-worth, set healthy boundaries, and seek professional support to overcome the lasting effects of emotional abuse.
Spousal abuse can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This guide explains how spousal abuse causes PTSD and how to deal with this issue effectively.
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