What is Domestic Abuse?
Domestic abuse is any incident or pattern of incidents where someone is controlled, coerced, threatened, degraded, or subjected to violence, which can sometimes include sexual abuse. The statutory definition of domestic abuse within the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 specifies the perpetrator as partner or ex-partner of the victim. Research shows that one in three women experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. In most cases, women are the survivors and men are the perpetrators.
Types of Abuse
Domestic abuse is not always physical. Understanding the type of abuse you are experiencing can help you access the right support. Abuse can include:
- Coercive control: a pattern of intimidation, isolation, degradation, and control, sometimes involving the threat or use of physical or sexual violence
- Psychological or emotional abuse: being belittled, manipulated, or constantly criticised
- Stalking and harassment: following, monitoring, or repeatedly contacting you in a way that scares or controls you
- Physical or sexual abuse: hitting, slapping, or sexual assault
- Financial or economic abuse: controlling money or access to resources
- Online or digital abuse: harassment, threats, or controlling behaviour through social media or messaging
- Immigration-related abuse: using your immigration status to control you, for example by threatening deportation or convincing you that authorities cannot help
