Domestic Abuse

Slapping, punching, grabbing, kicking, choking, pushing, restraining, pulling hair, pinching, and biting

Rape (use of force or threats to obtain sex)

Use of weapons, throwing objects, or keeping weapons that frighten a partner

Abuse of furniture, household items, pets, or destroying a partner’s belongings

Intimidation (e.g., standing in doorways during arguments, threatening gestures, using size to intimidate, standing over a partner, reckless driving)

Unwanted or non-consensual touching

Threats (verbal or nonverbal, direct or indirect)

Harassment (uninvited visits or calls, following a partner, checking up on a partner, embarrassing them in public, refusing to leave when asked)

Isolation (preventing or making it difficult for a partner to see or communicate with friends, relatives, or others)

Yelling, swearing, lewd behavior, raising the voice, using angry expressions or gestures

Criticism (name-calling, mocking, ridicule, accusations, blaming, trivializing words or gestures)

Pressure tactics (rushing decisions, using guilt or accusations, sulking, threatening to withhold financial support, manipulating children, abusing feelings)

Interrupting, changing topics, not listening, not responding, twisting words, speaking at length without allowing dialogue

Economic coercion (withholding money, transportation, or other resources; sabotaging a partner’s attempts to work)

Claiming authority over “the truth,” defining a partner’s behavior, using logic to dominate

Lying, withholding information, and infidelity

Using pornography in ways that harm the relationship (e.g., magazines, movies, strip shows, home videos)

Withholding help with childcare or housework; failing to follow through on agreements

Emotional withholding (not expressing feelings, failing to offer support, validation, attention, compliments, or respect for a partner’s feelings, rights, or opinions)

Neglecting self-care (not seeking support from friends, abusing substances, or engaging in people-pleasing behavior)