What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic Violence is the use of violence in close adult relationships.

• It is recurring in nature
• It occurs in all levels of society
• It occurs in both urban and rural areas


Types of Abuse


Physical
• hitting • kicking • head-butting
• stabbing • pushing
• choking • hair-pulling


Mental
• undermining her, • threats, • threats to children
• damage to property e.g. pets
• controlling access to car, money, telephone
• controlling access to education and employment
• controlling contact with friends, family, community
• timing outings to shop, etc.


Sexual
• forced sex, including rape
• forced participation in sexual activities against her wishes,
• forced use of pornography


The Effects of Domestic Violence
• Loss of confidence, *Depression, *Sleep problems
• Fearful of her children, *Absenteeism from work
• Increase in use of alcohol/drugs
• Poor physical/mental health
• Isolation - Physical and emotional
• Hospitalisation - broken bones, injuries, miscarriage

• DEATH