What is physical abuse?

Some people have questions reguarding what constitutes physical abuse. Does it have to leave marks? Do I have to have broken bones? These questions are irrlevent. If you feel that you are being abused you need to speak to someone about your consern. 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 agression 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 conserned about your partner's actions or something is happening that is frigtening you, it may be abuse. Please contact us to discuss your conserns.

Remember no one asks to be abused and domestic violence is never the fault of the victim.