There are millions of cases of domestic abuse every year around the world. Despite how common it is, there are many misconceptions surrounding it. Some of these misconceptions can prevent victims from getting the help they need. Below are 5 examples of commonly believed domestic abuse myths.
Myth #1: It isn’t classed as domestic abuse unless physical violence is involved
Physical violence is a common type of domestic abuse, but there are many other types of domestic abuse. Any type of threatening or manipulative behaviour can be classed as abuse. This includes:
- Physical abuse: hitting, slapping, kicking, holding someone down unwillingly
- Psychological/emotional abuse: insults, threats, humiliation, gaslighting, controlling behaviour, emotional blackmail, stonewalling
- Sexual abuse: unwanted kissing or touching, rape
- Financial abuse: spending someone’s money without permission, denying someone access to their bank account
- Digital abuse: denying someone access to social media/maliciously using their social media accounts without permission, sending threatening messages, sharing sexual photos/videos without permission (revenge porn)
- Forced marriage
As you can see, domestic abuse comes in many forms. Just because there has been no physical violence does not mean that abuse has not taken place.
Myth #2: Women are the only victims of domestic abuse
The overwhelming number of domestic abuse cases involve abuse against women (almost 70%) – however thousands of men are also victims of domestic abuse. This includes cases of domestic violence. Growing awareness is helping more male domestic abuse victims to speak out, but some still fear doing so, because they don’t think anyone will believe them.
Myth #3: An abusive partner can still be a healthy loving parent
Abusive partners aren’t always abusive to their kids – but many are. Even in cases where the abuser is a great father or mother, they may still witness abuse between their parents. Kids may experience trauma from this or be negatively influenced to expect such behaviours in their own relationships as they grow up. It is very hard to hide the impact of domestic abuse between parents from kids, which is why an abusive partner can rarely ever be a good parent. Consequently, you should never stay in an abusive relationship just for the sake of the kids – as this situation may actually be more harmful.
Myth #4: You cannot seek legal action against an abuser without clear evidence
While the police do need substantial evidence to press charges, this is not the only route you can take to seek justice if you have been a victim of abuse. By getting help from domestic abuse solicitors, you can put in place court orders to protect you or your family. While having some evidence is still important in this case, you will not need to collect as much proof as you would when approaching the police.
Myth #5: Abuse victims do not love their abusers
Not all victims of domestic abuse hate their partner. In fact, it’s normal to still love a partner who is abusing you – many abusive partners still display loving behaviour alongside abuse, which can make it hard to break up. It’s important to realise that no amount of loving behaviour can make up for regular abusive behaviour – there is never a reason to settle for the latter.
