An uncomfortable truth in the world is that abuse exists, typically behind closed doors. Some abuse is more visible, other types are much more subtle and harder to spot. Noticing the early warning signs early can help get people the support they need. So here are some of the more common types of abuse and indicators to watch out for so you can help put a stop to them.
Common Types of Abuse
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse means deliberately hurting someone’s body to cause them pain. Look for unexplained bruises, burns or broken bones, especially when the explanations don’t make sense. People experiencing physical abuse might become nervous around others, act aggressively or pull away from activities and friends they used to enjoy.
Emotional/Psychological Abuse
Emotional or psychological abuse happens when someone is seeking to negatively impact another’s emotional state, usually to attempt to control them. People suffering this abuse will often be convinced they’re worthless, feel anxious or appear strangely fearful. Children might start wetting the bed again, while adults might develop psychosomatic issues that doctors can’t explain.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse involves any unwanted sexual contact, and can be experienced by anyone. Physical signs might include bruising in private areas or sexually transmitted infections with no clear cause. Someone experiencing sexual abuse might use sexual language that seems odd for their age, know things about sex they shouldn’t, or try to avoid being alone with certain people.
Financial/Economic Abuse
Financial abuse occurs when someone controls another person’s money and resources, which can then result in restricting their lifestyle or actions. Watch for money mysteriously disappearing from accounts or personal belongings that go missing. Additionally, their lifestyle might seem worse than their circumstances would indicate, such as lacking money for basic household items despite working full-time. This can make someone incredibly vulnerable, but abuse claims can help get compensation to rectify this.
Neglect
Neglect means not providing basic needs or proper care, especially in children. Signs include poor hygiene, unsuitable clothing for the weather, and untreated medical problems. One key example is young children being left alone in the home without parental supervision, which can also be a form of child abuse.
Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse involves controlling behaviours in close relationships. Within that relationship, it would manifest as someone trying to cut you off from friends or family, making decisions for you, and invading privacy. Externally, if a friend suddenly becomes more subdued, this could be an indicator if there’s no other clear motivator.
Important Things to Remember
Abuse can happen to anyone. It doesn’t matter about someone’s age, gender, wealth or background. No one is immune. But some groups face higher risks of certain types of abuse.
Abusers usually don’t stick to just one type of abuse. They often use several methods together to keep control over the person they’re hurting.
Trust your gut feeling. If something doesn’t feel right in a relationship or situation, it probably isn’t. There are a number of abuse hotlines you can call to get support for yourself or to suggest to someone else.
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