What is physical abuse?
Some people have questions regarding what constitutes physical abuse. Does it have to leave marks?
Do I have to have broken bones? These questions are irrelevant.
If you feel that you are being abused you need to speak to someone about your concern.
If your partner uses size, strength, or presence to hurt or control you it is physical abuse.
A list of actions that may constitute physical abuse:
- Punching
- Slapping
- Pushing
- Biting
- Choking
- Grabbing
- Kicking
- Spitting
- Burning
- Restraining
- Abuse of children
- Forced sex
- Hair pulling
- Attack with object
- Chasing
Your partner does not have to do these acts to you. Physical abuse can also occur if aggression is used on objects.
- Throwing things
- Breaking personal items
- Driving recklessly
- Slamming drawers
- Breaking windshield
- Punching walls or doors
- Sweeping things off tables
- Kicking a car or furniture
- Unplugging or breaking phone
- Stalking
- Taking car keys
- Taking credit cards, money, or checkbook
- Clenching fists as a threat
This is not a comprehensive list. If you are concerned about your partner’s actions or something is happening that is frightening you, it may be abuse. Please contact us to discuss your concerns.