Domestic violence is an epidemic that is often carried from generation to generation as an unhealthy family legacy. What is witnessed and experienced in the home as a child in their family of origin is often relived in adulthood. What constitutes domestic violence and abuse? If you recognize the signs, you may want to consider finding a safe shelter or calling a domestic abuse lawyer Hernando County FL.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse is what most people think of in regard to domestic violence. It includes hitting, slapping, biting, punching, kicking or harming someone with an object. It is sometimes called Intimate Partner Violence, and it is often used to exert power and control over someone. This occurs across all races and socioeconomic backgrounds. Unfortunately, the biggest risk to safety can sometimes happen when you choose to leave the situation.
Verbal Abuse
Verbal abuse includes name calling, constant insults and degradation. All abuse centers around power and control, it is just how it is used that can vary. If your partner tells you nothing you ever do is right, if they don’t validate your feelings, if they humiliate you, if they scream at you, if they tell you that you will never find anyone better or they tell you that you cause them to treat you in the way that they do, then they are engaging in verbal abuse
Psychological Abuse
Gaslighting is a common tactic used in psychological abuse. Gaslighting involves twisting reality to make the victim think their view of reality is wrong or distorted. The abuser is often an expert at convincing their victim that they are the ones to blame, that they are crazy or that something is wrong with them. Abusers feel power and control over shaking up their victim’s sense of identity and self.
Physical, verbal and psychological abuse are three methods abusers use to exert power and control over their victims. If you think you are a victim of domestic violence, seek help. Resources are available.