Emotional abuse and coercive control in relationships isn’t always easy to recognise – would you know what to look for?
Coercive control is a form of abuse where the abuser uses manipulative tactics to exert power and dominance over their partner. Coercive control impacts everyone, but it affects women the most, societal norms and expectations often place men in positions of power over women, making it easier for them to exert control. 60-80% of women seeking help for abuse have encountered coercive control, highlighting the prevalence of this issue among female survivors.
This inflicts severe psychological and emotional impacts on victims, who often feel trapped, fearful, and helpless. Encouraging open communication, offering emotional support to those who have experienced coercive control in relationships, and guiding them to professional help can make a huge difference in their journey towards safety and recovery. As such, it is crucial to recognise the signs of coercive control and provide support to those affected.
What to look out for
- Separating you from your support network
- Keeping track of your daily activities
- Restricting your freedom and independence
- Manipulating your perception of reality (gaslighting)
- Name-calling and insults
- Controlling your finances
- Enforcing conventional gender roles
- Turning your children against you
- Dominating aspects of your health and body
- Making unfounded jealous accusations
- Dictating your sexual relationship
- Threatening your children or pets
Being aware of these warning signs can help you spot coercive control in relationships – not only in your relationships, but in those around you. Remember, that while it’s admirable to want to support someone in an abusive relationship, your own safety is important too. Don’t take action unless you’re certain that it’s safe for you and the victim to do so, and most importantly – call 999 if you believe someone is in imminent danger. Read more about supporting someone else here.
Safe in Salford can help if you’re worried about your relationship, get in touch today.
