Identifying Violence
Understanding Family Violence: More Than Just Physical Abuse
Family violence is a widespread issue in Australia, affecting individuals across all communities. It includes any threatening, coercive, dominating, or abusive behavior occurring within familial, domestic, or intimate relationships. The goal of family violence is to control or instill fear in the victim, and it is never just a one-time argument—it’s an ongoing pattern of abuse.
Did you know?
In Australia, 1 in 6 women and 1 in 16 men have experienced physical or sexual violence by a current or former partner, while 1 in 4 women have experienced emotional abuse by a partner. Family violence is a critical issue that often goes unreported and can involve a variety of harmful tactics, not just physical violence.
Family Violence Isn’t Just Physical or Sexual
While physical and sexual abuse are often the most visible, family violence includes many other harmful forms of abuse, such as emotional, psychological, financial, and even cultural abuse. All forms of abuse are damaging and create unhealthy dynamics that can deeply affect victims' mental and emotional well-being.
Where Family Violence Happens
Family violence typically occurs between intimate partners or immediate family members within the home. However, it can also happen in other 'family-like' relationships, such as those involving a carer, or relationships that are culturally recognized as family.
Types of Family Violence:
Intimate Partner Abuse: This includes violent behavior by a current or former spouse or partner. Shockingly, 1 woman is killed by her current or former partner every 9 days in Australia.Dating Abuse: Violence isn’t limited to marriage. Casual or dating partners can also be abusive, using physical, emotional, or controlling behavior to intimidate and dominate their partner.
Child Abuse: This includes physical, emotional, or sexual mistreatment of a child by a caregiver. In Victoria, exposing a child to family violence is considered child abuse, and it is a reportable offence.
Elder Abuse: Elder abuse can take many forms, including financial exploitation, emotional control, or neglect by a family member or partner. It’s often hidden but is just as damaging as other forms of violence.
Parental Abuse: Less often talked about, parental abuse is when an adolescent or dependent uses violent behavior towards their parent. It’s a growing concern in many households.
Family violence can occur in many different relationships and take various forms, but the damage is always serious and long-lasting. By understanding the full scope of family violence, we can work together to create safer, healthier communities.
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, it’s important to seek help. There are services and professionals ready to support you and provide the protection and guidance you need to stay safe.