Intimate partner violence (also known as domestic violence) refers to behaviour by an intimate partner or ex-partner that causes physical, sexual or psychological harm, including physical aggression, sexual coercion, psychological abuse and controlling behaviours. (World Health Organization, 2014. Violence against women fact sheet)
Both women and men can be the victims of intimate partner violence and it can occur in opposite-sex or same-sex partners. It involves the dynamic of power, dominance and control from the abuser to the victim.
Types of Violence:
- Physical – Examples of physical violence includes being hit, pushed, kicked, choked, slapped or being hit with an object.
- Emotional – Examples of emotional abuse includes threats to harm victim, children or self. It can also include intimidating behaviour such as punching walls or breaking items or isolating the victim from friends and family.
- Verbal – Examples of verbal abuse includes calling the victim names.
- Sexual – Examples of sexual violence include forcing victim to engage in unwanted sexual activity.
- Financial – An example of financial violence includes withholding money from the victim.
- Religious – An example of religious violence includes ridiculing victim for their religious beliefs.
Individuals who engage in domestic violence can benefit from programming that teaches them how not to be abusive and controlling in their interpersonal relationships.
You choose to abuse, and you can choose NOT to abuse.
Support and Resources:
Moose Jaw Police Service (306) 694-7600
Moose Jaw RCMP (306) 691-4670
Moose Jaw Transition House (306) 693-6511
Regina Sexual Assault Centre (306) 352-0434
Victim Services (306) 694-7621
Submitted by: The Moose Jaw Partners Against Violence Committee
