INDIRECT THREATS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Domestic violence takes on many forms and all are very harmful to the whole family environment – even indirect threats such as: 

• Restricting physical movement or social contact (standing in doorway, taking away keys, “grounding” you) 
• Destructing items of yours or that you share
• Smashing things, punching holes in the walls or doors
• Driving recklessly to frighten you
• Threatening violence or suicide
• Using children against you
• Threatening to take the children if you should leave
• Obstructing you from seeking help

All of these have a strong psychological and health impact on every family member and they are considered forms of abuse. These abuses need to be addressed before they escalate into larger abusive problems.
 
Source: Talking Points Presentation by Safe from the Start (2016)
 
If you or someone you know is being abused, seek help today. In an emergency, please dial 911. For all other help, please call: Illinois Statewide Domestic Violence Helpline 877 TO END DV ( 877-863-6338), 877-863-6339 TTY. They can direct you to the best place for your individual situation.