Effects of Domestic Abuse

Domestic Abuse/Coercive Control is a deliberate pattern of behaviour by an abuser over a prolonged period of time designed to achieve obedience and create fear. Complex trauma is the result of this prolonged exposure to abuse and control. When working with families impacted by Domestic Abuse/Coercive Control, it is important for professionals to understand the impact of trauma on the person being abused and to consider not only the effects of the abuse but also the factors that contribute to impact and resilience. The following is not an exhaustive list, and not everyone who is abused will experience all of these effects.

WOMEN

• Panic attacks • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder • Anxiety • Suicidal ideation/attempted suicide • Exhaustion • Low self-esteem/self-doubt • Social isolation • Loss of employment/homelessness/poverty • Reproductive health issues, e.g. unwanted pregnancy/miscarriage/contraceptive issues • Substance abuse • Physical injury/death

• Panic attacks • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder • Anxiety • Suicidal ideation/attempted suicide • Exhaustion • Low self-esteem/self-doubt • Social isolation • Loss of employment/homelessness/poverty • Substance abuse • Physical injury

• Bed-wetting/nightmares/ ashbacks • Stress-related illness (skin conditions etc.) • Eating dif culties • Attachment issues • School refusal • Low self-esteem • Anxiety • Isolation amongst peers • Self-harm • Suicide • Anger issues • Death

• Resentment • Homelessness • Isolation • Intergenerational cycle • Mental health issues • Scapegoating • Perpetrator may have negative impact on relationship with victim & children • Perpetrator may have negative impact on professionals/community • Helplessness • Fear