Domestic abuse is defined as 'any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse, between persons aged 16 or over, who are or who have been in a relationship, or who are family members, regardless of gender.”
Abuse can be:
psychological
physical
sexual
emotional
financial
Domestic abuse is caused by the abuser and their desire for power and control. It is not the fault of the person being abused.
Anyone can be abused, no matter where they live or how much money they have.
It can affect anyone, regardless of race, age, class, gender, religion or sexuality. It happens in all kinds of relationships: heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and within families.
For both male and female victims of abuse, the message is the same:
Domestic abuse can be more than physical abuse
It is not ok to be abused and it is not your fault
Help is available, and it is ok to ask for it
Signs of a healthy relationship:
Makes me feel safe
Makes me feel comfortable
Listens to me
Values my opinions
Supports what I want to do in life
Is truthful with me
Tries to understand how I feel
Likes that I have other friends
Makes me laugh
Trusts me
Treats me as an equal
Respects my family
Understands my need for time alone or with friends and family
Accepts me as I am
Signs of an unhealthy relationship:
Tries to control me
Gets violent or loses temper quickly
Always blames me
Is sexually demanding
Keeps me from seeing my friends and family
Makes all the decisions
Embarrasses me in front of others
Hits me
Makes me cry
Makes me feel afraid
Is always “checking up” on me
Takes my money and other belongings
Threatens to leave me if I don’t do as I’m told
Teases, bullies and puts me down
If you recognise any of these signs, you may be a victim of domestic abuse.
You do not have to suffer alone. Help, advice and support is available.
