Domestic violence can have a broad impact. It can impact those most directly involved, as well as families, communities and society as a whole. It is important for those involved, or alleged to be involved, in domestic violence situations to understand what the law considers domestic violence and the protections available to anyone impacted by domestic violence.
Following are the definitions of different types of domestic abuse:
- Physical abuse: Domestic abuse includes physical violence such as hitting, punching, pinching, pushing, shoving, slapping, biting, kicking and other forms of physical abuse.
- Sexual abuse: Sexual abuse includes coerced or force sexual contact or sex, including marital rape. It can also include sexual jokes or demeaning sexual behavior.
- Emotional abuse: Emotional abuse is targeted at self-worth or self-esteem. It can include criticism, name-calling and other behaviors aimed at diminishing self-worth or self-esteem.
- Economic abuse: Economic abuse involves creating financial reliance which can include controlling financial resources.
- Psychological abuse: Psychological abuse includes fear and intimidation and other threatening behaviors.
- Stalking and cyberstalking: Stalking can include harassing, following, watching and other stalking behaviors. Cyberstalking includes online stalking behaviors.
Individuals accused of domestic abuse may face serious consequences including the inability to return to their home or be around their children. Other rights may also be impacted by domestic abuse accusations.
Legal resources and protections are available to anyone affected by domestic violence. Those accused of domestic violence can face serious consequences and repercussions which is why legal resources are also available to help them when they are facing domestic violence allegations.