Understanding Domestic Violence in Adult Relationships
Domestic violence is not always physical. It can be emotional, psychological, financial, or sexual. Understanding the patterns of abuse is crucial for recognizing it in your own life and supporting others. The Power and Control Wheel, developed by the Domestic Abuse Intervention Project, illustrates how abusers use different forms of control to dominate their partners.
Forms of Abuse Highlighted in the Wheel:
Using Intimidation: Abusers may use threats, gestures, or destruction of property to instill fear. Example: Slamming doors or breaking objects to frighten a partner into compliance.
Emotional Abuse: Name-calling, constant criticism, and belittling erode self-esteem over time. Example: “You’re worthless, nobody else will ever love you.”
Isolation: Limiting contact with friends, family, or support systems keeps the victim dependent. Example: Insisting a partner quit social activities or monitoring phone and social media usage.
Minimizing, Denying, and Blaming: Abusers often downplay their actions or blame the victim. Example: “I only hit you because you made me so angry.”
Using Children: Threatening to take children away or using them to manipulate. Example: “If you leave, I’ll make sure the kids never see you again.”
Economic Abuse: Controlling finances to limit independence. Example: Refusing to let the partner access bank accounts or monitoring all spending.
Using Partner Privilege: Treating the partner as inferior or controlling household decisions. Example: “I make all the decisions in this family—you don’t get a say.”
Coercion and Threats: Threatening harm or forcing actions to maintain control. Example: Threatening self-harm if the partner tries to leave.
Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward breaking free from abuse. At Fantasia Therapy Services, we provide compassionate, confidential therapy for survivors of domestic violence. Our team helps you process trauma, build healthy boundaries, and regain control of your life.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Contact local hotlines, shelters, or mental health professionals.
Resources:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1−800−799−SAFE (7233)
Loveisrespect.org: Text “LOVEIS” to 22522
Fantasia Therapy Services: therapist@fantasiatherapyservicespllc.com | fantasiatherapyservicespllc.com