What is Abuse?
Abuse
comes in many forms and not all result in physical harm. If any of
the following describes a situation you or someone you know is in, there
is cause to seek help.
Physical Abuse:
You
have been slapped, kicked, shoved, punched, choked, pinched, burnt or
threatened with a knife, gun or household item.
Sexual Abuse:
You
have been embarrassed or insulted in front of others. You have
been the subject of unfounded jealousy or accusations. You feel
you must submit to someone's sexual demands. Your partner forces
you to perform any sexual act and uses manipulation, threats or
other fear tactics to gain submission. You are forced to watch
pornographic movies or watch others participate in sexual activity.
Psychological Abuse:
Your partner threatens to kill him or herself, you or the children.
Your partner destroys your personal belongings, clothing, property or
family items. Your partner plays with a weapon or deprives you of
sleep, food or contact with family or friends. Your partner deprives you
or your children of affection. Your partner uses fear tactics like
driving recklessly, threatening to shove you down the stairs but catches
you.
Destruction of
Property or Pets:
Your
partner harms your pets, destroys your possessions, locks you in or out
of your home.
Social, Financial,
Ritual and Religious Abuse:
Your
partner puts you down or ignores you in public and controls who you see
and what you do. Your partner withholds money, spends it on
addictions and may prevent you from taking a job. Your partner
controls your church attendance and mocks your beliefs or forces you to
participate or witness rituals.