What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse is a form of controlling and aggressive behaviour carried out by partners (or ex-partners) and can include:

physical abuse, such as assault and physical attack
sexual abuse, and
mental and emotional abuse.

This abuse may get worse during pregnancy. Below are examples of what form this abuse may take - but remember it's not exhaustive - you may suffer from other forms of abuse.

If you want advice or help, please phone and talk to us on 0300 300 0345.

Emotional

Verbal
Humiliation - often in front of the children
Controlling and monitoring the woman's movements
Playing mind games
Distorting the woman's sense of perspective
Rejection
Denying her sleep
Threatening deportation
Extreme jealousy and possessiveness

Physical

Slapping
Pushing
Kicking
Hitting head of floors or walls
Assault with a weapon
Stabbing
Choking
Thrown downstairs
Holding under water
Neglect
Suffocated

Sexual

Rape (including vaginally, anally and orally)
Sexual assault
Unwanted sexual intimacy
Penetration with objects
Coercive involvement in acts of pornography or unwanted sexual acts
Forced to get pregnant or have an abortion
Prostitution

Economic

Keeping women and children short of food/clothing
Controlling family income
Not allowing woman to work

No one deserves to be abused and you don't have to live with it.

Women and Children First is a project which could help you. If you would like more information or advice from them please contact them.

Renfrewshire Council