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What is Relationship Violence?
* A pattern of verbally, physically , sexually, and/or emotionally abusive behaviors used by one individual to assert power or maintain control over his or her partner.
* Behavior ranging from verbal threats, put-downs, and name calling to hitting, slapping, pushing, and sexual abuse.
* A violation of an individual’s body.
* It is set on a continuum and rarely occurs as isolated incidents.
* Against the law.
Types of Abuse
Emotional abuse: Includes actions by a partner that systematically destroy a person’s sense of self-esteem and self-worth. Emotional abuse includes jealous behavior, ignoring feelings, belittling values, restricting social activities with others, and withholding love, approval, and affection.
Verbal abuse: Using words to injure another person. This includes name calling, insults, threats of physical and/or sexual violence, threats of self-harm and/or suicide, humiliation, intimidation, criticism of one’s body and exaggerated criticism for mistakes.
Sexual abuse: Includes any forcible sexual activity that occurs without consent. This can range from unwanted touching to forcible penetration.
Physical abuse: Includes any behavior that causes or threatens to cause bodily harm. Some examples are hitting, slapping, grabbing, breaking things, or threatening to do any of the above.
Important Resources
If you feel that you or someone you know is experiencing a form of relationship violence (or that you just want more information) please see the following resources to consider support and services available:
Helpmate Domestic Violence Agency
North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence