Psychological violence
Attitude and behavior designed to demean or scorn the other. Very subtle type of violence that results in diminishing the victim’s self-esteem and confidence. It might consist of negative comments uttered in front of others. Critiquing a partner’s skills in an unfavorable manner. Failing to communicate over a period of several days. Etc…
Physical abuse
Type of abuse whereby the abuser impairs someone’s physical integrity. For instance, all assault and battery. Throwing objects at the other person. Squeezing arms, shoving, pushing. Blocking a person’s path.
Verbal abuse
Abuse inflicted through words, tone of voice. Using an aggressive tone. Demeaning content addressed to one’s partner.
Economic abuse
Economic abuse occurs when the abusive spouse tries to control his/her partner’s sources of revenue or to dispose of money according to his/her whim. This involves controlling economic activity. For instance, taking away the partner’s credit cards. Deprived of income. Creating financial dependency.
Sexual abuse
Sexual abuse includes everything that relates to sexual violence, touching. Degrading comments linked to sexuality. Forcing his/her partner to watch or reenact pornography. Forcing unwanted relationships.
Social abuse
Social abuse results in isolating the woman. The significant other attempts to isolate his/her partner from her acquaintances, family and friends. He/she puts down his/her spouse’s hobbies and outings. The significant other makes life difficult whenever the spouse goes out (ex.: deluging number of texts, frequent calls, etc…).