Understanding domestic abuse

What is Domestic Abuse?

Domestic abuse is a pattern of controlling, coercive, threatening, or abusive behaviour within a relationship. It can affect people of all backgrounds and may occur in intimate, family, or household relationships.

Domestic abuse can take different forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, and digital abuse, as well as coercive and controlling behaviour.

Impact on Women

Women experiencing abuse may face a wide range of physical, emotional, social, and financial challenges. These can include injury, anxiety, depression, trauma, isolation, loss of confidence, financial dependency, and difficulties accessing support or maintaining stability and independence.

Impact During Pregnancy

Domestic abuse during pregnancy can place both the mother and unborn child at risk. It may contribute to stress, trauma, miscarriage, premature birth, and other health complications, while prolonged exposure to unsafe environments can also affect maternal well-being and child development.

Impact on Children

Children exposed to domestic abuse may experience emotional distress, anxiety, behavioural difficulties, trauma, developmental challenges, and difficulties within education and relationships. Exposure to abuse can have lasting effects on a child’s well-being and sense of safety.

Impact on Communities

Domestic abuse can have wider social and economic impacts on families and communities. It contributes to increased demand on health and support services, homelessness, poverty, social instability, and long-term inequalities, while also increasing the risk of intergenerational cycles of harm and abuse.