Five Types of Family Violence and the Behaviors That Define Them

 Posted on May 31, 2022 in Criminal Defense

Incidents of family violence are responsible for an alarming number of injuries and deaths each year, spanning across all classes and races, regardless of income and education levels. Family violence—also known as domestic violence—usually begins manifesting itself with a pattern of threats, insults, or jealousy, and gradually becomes more frequent and severe over time. The abuser tends to utilize these tactics to essentially isolate, overpower, and control the victim.  

What Does Family Violence Look Like?

While the behaviors described above comprise the typical abuse cycle, family violence can look very different from one case to the next. There are multiple kinds of abuse—all of them capable of causing long-term emotional, mental, and physical damage. Here are five general categories of domestic violence and the behaviors that define them:

1. Physical abuse - This is usually one of the first categories we think of when we think of domestic violence. Inflicting any kind of physical harm on a partner, such as hitting, kicking, slapping, punching, or forcing them to use drugs or alcohol classifies as physical abuse. 

2. Sexual abuse - Forcing sexual contact without a partner’s consent is considered a form of domestic violence. A number of behaviors define this type of violence, including rape, treating someone in a sexually demeaning manner, or coercing someone into a sex act. Tampering with birth control or prophylactics is also considered a type of sexual abuse, as such behavior affects the victim’s consent and control over the sexual relationship.

3. Emotional abuse - Using words to inflict emotional pain is a type of domestic violence that commonly occurs between abusive partners and their victims. This can include calling someone names, belittling them, undermining their self-worth, or diminishing their abilities. If someone is continuously criticizing their partner and breaking them down with their words, they are guilty of emotional abuse.

4. Financial abuse - Some victims are unable to recognize financial abuse when it is happening, but it is more common than many people realize. If a partner seizes their partner’s financial resources or takes complete control over the finances in order to keep the victim in a dependent state, they are economically abusive. Other behaviors that define this category of domestic violence include preventing a partner from attending work or school, or cutting them off from the ability to access funds in any way.

5. Psychological abuse - Psychological domestic violence can take many shapes and forms and may include a combination of behaviors. Using fear to intimidate and control a partner, or making physical threats against them or their family and pets is considered psychological abuse. Using fear to manipulate a partner in any way is a key behavior that defines this category - and most categories - of domestic violence.

Facing Charges? Work With a North Texas Family Violence Attorney

Certain types of family violence are more likely than others to lead to criminal charges if and when such behavior is reported to the police. If you are facing charges related to any type of domestic abuse, it is important to work closely with an experienced Fort Worth criminal defense lawyer. At The Dameron Law Firm, we understand that every criminal defendant is innocent until proven guilty, and we will work hard to ensure that your rights and best interests are fully protected. Call 817-222-0624 for a free consultation today.

Sources:

https://www.justice.gov/ovw/domestic-violence

https://www2.texasattorneygeneral.gov/initiatives/family-violence/