Definition Of Domestic Abuse In Psychology

There is not a specific cause to establish why domestic violence occurs.

Definition of domestic abuse in psychology. A range of acts designed to make a person subordinate and or dependant by isolating them from sources of support exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain depriving them of the means needed for independence resistance and escape and regulating. There is a deep emotional bond and so the abuse tends to happen for a long time. Within this variance are broad definitions that may include stalking harassment and in some instances nonphysical abuse including intimidation. This abuse can take different forms and combinations of physical aggression emotional control or manipulation sexual violent or unwanted sexual contact and financial abuse or control of another s financial resources and can cross all age groups.

As a psychologist specializing in the treatment of domestic abuse i am keenly aware of the way in which the psychological disturbance drives the domestic abuse. Domestic abuse and abuse that takes place within a family are two types of violence that have the greatest impact. And this awareness is what makes it possible for me to appreciate the potential for psychotherapeutic change. Domestic violence is a crime that occurs regularly within the united states.

However it has been documented that domestic violence is a product of physical emotional sexual psychological and any other forms of torture or torment that the particular abuser wishes to employ to. The domestic abuse definition specifically states. Why we need to talk about domestic violence and abuse in recognition of domestic violence awareness month women s programs office senior director shari miles cohen phd joined local and national organizations for a pbs news hour twitter chat. Approximately 38 states place domestic violence definitions and penalties within the criminal code and nearly every state provides a definition within the domestic relations or social services codes.

An action by one person against another with the intent to cause harm. The worst part is that the abuse is often subtle or condoned by the environment or culture. Domestic violence can be physical or psychological and it can affect anyone of any age gender race or sexual orientation. Abuse can take many forms and two of its most common forms are domestic abuse and child abuse.

It may include behaviors meant to scare physically harm or control a. Psychology definition of domestic violence. Psychological abuse targets thoughts feelings and perception and is known to impact a person s psyche and sense of wellbeing to the same extent as physical abuse katz et al.