Abuse can and does occur in any intimate relationship
regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Violence against
women also occurs in extended families, through society, and by friends,
acquaintances, and strangers. Abuse is any behaviour or pattern of behaviour
used to coerce, dominate or isolate the other person. It
is the use of any form of power that is imposed by one person over the other
to maintain control within the relationship.
Abuse Includes, But is Not Limited to:
Physical Abuse - hitting; choking; slapping; burning; shoving;
using a weapon; physically restraining; intentional interference with basic needs
(e.g. food, medicine, sleep).
Isolation: Restricting Freedom - controlling
contacts with friends and family, access to information and participation in
groups or organizations; locking up in a room / restricting mobility; monitoring
telephone calls.
Psychological & Emotional Abuse - constantly criticizing,
ridiculing (self, family, friends, past); trying to humiliate or degrade; lying;
undermining self-esteem.
Stalking / Harassing Behaviour - following; turning up at workplace
or house; parking outside; repeated phone calls or mail to victim and/or family,
friends, colleagues.
Threats & Intimidation - threatening to harm partner, self
or others (children, family, friends, pets); threatening to make reports to authorities
that jeopardize child custody, immigration or legal status; threatening to disclose
HIV status or sexual orientation to friends, neighbors, and/or employers.
Economic Abuse - controlling or stealing money; fostering dependency;
making financial decisions without asking or telling partner.
Sexual Abuse/Harassment - forcing sex or specific acts, pressuring
into unwanted sexual behavior, criticizing performance.
Property Destruction - destroying
mementos, breaking furniture or windows, throwing or smashing objects,
trashing clothes or other possessions.
If
you wish to speak to a Front Line Counsellor call
905-387-8881 (Crisis
Line) or to make an appointment call 905-387-9959
ext 231
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