When it comes to recognizing the signs of abuse it is important to acknowledge that abuse can come in many forms. According to ‘REACH, Beyond Domestic Violence’ (2023), there are 6 different types of abuse, they are as follows:
Physical
Sexual
Verbal/emotional
Mental/Psychological
Financial/Economic
Cultural Identity
Just as abuse can come in many forms, the way that one reacts to abuse can vary–everybody copes differently. We must not judge anyone for how they manage such a difficult situation. Depending on the type of abuse one faces, there can be different signs to look out for; for example, physical abuse can manifest as unexplained or frequent injuries, overly protective clothing, or fear of their partner or caregiver. Emotional abuse can look like constant criticism of oneself, isolation, and low-self esteem. Signs of sexual abuse can be shown through physical injury, a fear of intimacy, or sexual behavior that are inappropriate for one’s age. Signs of financial abuse can look like one being denied access to money, being forced to sign over one’s assets, being forced to work, or being denied access to financial information (New Dimensions, 2023).
If you believe that someone you know is being abused there are ways you can help. The United States Department on Women's Health (2021) has outlined some tips, listed below.
Set up a time to talk: try to find a time that works for them to meet in person, and that is in a safe, private location.
Let them know you are concerned about their safety: Be honest, and let them know you care for them, give specific examples of why you are worried, and know that they might be defensive or deny the abuse, but continue to support them anyway.
Be supportive: It can be hard for people to talk about abuse, especially with a friend or loved one. Let the person know that you are there for them, and there is no pressure for them to open up about it, but you will always support them if they need to talk.
Don’t place shame, blame, or guilt: It is important to never pressure someone to leave an abusive situation, there are a lot of factors that can come into play when someone is experiencing abuse, so be sure to not place blame or guilt on the person for not leaving or speaking up. Instead, let them know you understand how hard this must be for them, and continue to be there for them.
Encourage them to talk to someone who can help: There are many resources for those who are experiencing abuse, numbers will be linked below for helplines. You can refer a loved one to reach out to organizations such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline, and they will be put in contact with trained professionals who can help them through this tough situation.
If they decide to stay, continue to be supportive: It can take someone up to 7 attempts before they permanently leave their abuser, and for others, it can take even more attempts, every situation is different. It is important not to judge a loved one for going back, just know that they are in a tough situation, and your continued support might be what they need.
Links to Help Lines:
-The National Domestic Violence Hotline:
You can call 1-800-799-7233 or text BEGIN to 88788, their website, linked here, also offers live chat.
-The National Sexual Assault Hotline:
You can call 1-800-656-4673 or visit their website here to chat live with someone today.
-The National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline:
You can call 1-866-331-9474 or visit their website here to chat or text with someone.
Written by Emma Cho
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