What types of abuse does the Act protect you from?
Types of abuse:
You are a victim of domestic abuse if anyone you are in a domestic relationship with abuses you physically, sexually, emotionally, psychologically or verbally.
Physical Abuse
The type of abuse most commonly associated with Domestic Violence, physical abuse includes anything your abuser does that hurts you physically. Examples of this type of abuse includes slapping, punching, beating, kicking, stabbing, scratching, burning and even shooting.
Verbal Abuse
A victim of verbal abuse gets called names, is shouted at and gets sweared at a lot. Verbal abuse includes anything a person can say to you that harms you in any way.
Emotional Abuse
A person guilty of emotionally abusing you might shout at you, call you mean names and break down your self-esteem by saying hurtfull things on purpose. Emotional abuse also includes threats of suicide or of taking your children away from you should you decide to leave.
Sexual Abuse
There is a common misconception that you cannot be sexually abused by someone you are in a romantic relationship with. Sexual abuse in any relationship includes sexual acts performed on your body without your consent.
Psychological Abuse
When your self-esteem gets attacked and your mental health is affected, you are probably a victim of phsycological abuse. This type of abuse also includes any acts that may negatively impact on your mental health.
Economic Abuse
This kind of abuse includes theft of your money, withholding household money from you, refusing to buy essentials like food.
Intimidation
Someone guilty of intimidation might threaten to hurt you or the people you love to get you to do as they wish.
Invasion
It is considered abusive behaviour to enter someone’s home against their will.
Harassment
A victim of harassment is typically followed or watched, they receive unwanted communication and continue to be approached even after asking the person to stop.
Stalking
Stalkers spend a considerable amount of time watching you and following you against your will.
Damage of Property
Your abuser might break and damage things that belong to you in an attempt to punish you or make you suffer. An example of this may be an ex-lover destroying your car after seeing you out on a date with someone else.
The effect of Domestic Violence on children
Getting out of an abusive relationship is not only in your own best interest, but is also essential in ensuring the wellbeing of those depending on you.
The children of victims of domestic violence are statistically more frequently ill than children from healthy home environments. Research has also shown that children who witness acts of violence are more prone to participate in high risk games, self-abuse including cutting or scratching and even suicide. By getting a Protection Order and getting yourself out of the relationship, you are protecting your children.
You may apply for a Protection Order if:
- You are in a domestic relationship with your abuser.
- You are concerned about someone you love who is the victim of domestic abuse.
- You are a teacher, nurse, doctor or a member of the police force and are concerned about a victim.
