Domestic abuse is a pattern of behaviour that one person uses to gain or maintain power and control over another person in an intimate relationship.
It is also known as domestic violence and is a serious issue that can happen to anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or socioeconomic status. It can include physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse.
Physical abuse is the most common form of domestic violence and can include hitting, slapping, kicking, punching, throwing objects, and using weapons. Sexual abuse is any sexual activity that is forced or coerced on someone. This can include rape, sexual assault, and unwanted touching. Emotional abuse can be more difficult to recognise than physical or sexual abuse, but it is just as harmful. It can include name-calling, put-downs, insults, threats, intimidation, and controlling behaviour. Financial abuse is the use of money or finances to control another person. This can include not allowing someone to have a job, taking their money away, or making them dependent on you for money.
Research shows that teenagers experience domestic abuse, and they can be particularly vulnerable as they lack experience in forming safe relationships. Over the past two decades, various research studies with young people between the ages of 13 and 17 have shown that:
- 88% had experienced some form of intimate relationship.
- 25% of girls and 18% of boys reported some form of physical partner abuse.
- Nearly 75% of girls and 50% of boys reported emotional partner abuse.
Domestic violence can have a devastating effect on victims. It can lead to physical injury, emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It can also strain relationships with friends and family and make it difficult to attend school or work.
Children and young people have often been referred to as the hidden or forgotten victims of domestic abuse. They can experience domestic abuse in many ways, and every child’s experience will be different. Not only do they experience it in their own relationships, but they may be witnesses of violence or overhear it within their family. Sometimes, the abuser will threaten to harm their mother, family or a beloved pet if they tell anyone what is happening.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, there are resources available to help. It is important to remember that you are not alone and that there is help available. Domestic violence is not your fault, and you do not have to live in fear. In an emergency, contact the PSNI on 999.
