Domestic Violence

What is Domestic violence?

Most of us think of domestic violence in a very stereotypical way with a big man physically beating up on a tiny woman. However, that is not always the case. There are many different sides to domestic violence. In general domestic violence is a violent crime which is committed within an intimate relationship. What does that mean? It means it can be between husbands and wives, domestic partners, boyfriends, girlfriends and also includes any children or extended family living within the home or within the relationship. It is a pattern of abuse that escalates in which one partner in the relationship controls the other through the use of force, and/or the threat of leaving or violence.

There are many forms of abuse. Here is a list of the more common and well known forms of abuse:

• Physical Abuse: Such as kicking, punching, shoving, slapping, pushing.
• Sexual Abuse: Forced or pressured into sexual acts, including rape.
• Emotional Abuse: Comments against a person’s self-esteem, including calling crude names, criticizing body parts; threats to report child abuse or neglect and have children removed from home.
• Verbal Abuse: Name-calling, threats, put-downs.
• Financial Abuse: Controlling and manipulating another by threatening economic status or basic needs.
• Destructive Acts: Actual or threatened attack of a person’s property or pets to induce fear or control.

Whether you or a loved one is a victim or a have been a perpetrator of violence within your significant relationships, there is help. If you want help with your relationship, family or if you are now dealing with the legal system, the therapists at AmberCreek Counseling & Recovery Services can help you and your loved ones find the peace you deserve.