Coercive control
What is Coercive control?
Coercive control is a pattern of abusive behavior aimed at dominating and controlling another person through manipulation, intimidation, and threats. It is a form of psychological abuse that gradually erodes the victim's sense of self-worth and autonomy, trapping them in a toxic cycle of power imbalance.
Signs of Coercive control include the following:
isolation from friends and/or family
surveillance of daily activities
financial control, monitoring finances, financial dependency on abuser
emotional manipulation
the abuser instills fear and dependency making it hard to leave
threatening to take the children if the victim leaves
stating the victim will lose the children if the victim leaves the relationship
threatening to commit suicide if the victim ends the relationship
threatening to damage items of deceased loved ones
coercing victim to quit jobs and be the stay at home parent and solely relying on abuser
demanding the victim to perform sexual activities for the abuser and stating consequences if the victim does not follow the demands.
threatening to release intimate pictures or videos if the victim does not follow the abusers demands
Continued court motions simply as a control tactic
creating poverty in the victim
Are there any groups more vulnerable to become victims of domestic violence and coercive control?
While research on the specific correlation between autism and coercive control is limited, preliminary evidence suggests that individuals with autism may indeed be more susceptible to such victimization. Autism, a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by difficulties in social communication and interaction, can make those affected vulnerable to manipulation and exploitation. The unique social challenges experienced by individuals with autism, such as impairments in understanding social cues, may place them at a higher risk of falling victim to the insidious tactics of coercive control. Further research in this area is essential to understand the potential link between autism and coercive control, which can contribute to the development of effective prevention strategies and support systems for those affected.
ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in sustaining attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. While ADHD does not inherently make individuals more susceptible to coercive control, certain factors associated with the condition may contribute to increased vulnerability. The challenges in executive functioning, emotional regulation, and impulsivity experienced by individuals with ADHD can potentially make them more prone to manipulation and coercion. Moreover, the difficulties in maintaining focus and inattention to detail can lead to impaired judgment and decision-making, making it easier for perpetrators of coercive control to exert their influence. However, it is important to note that susceptibility to coercive control is not exclusive to individuals with ADHD, as it can affect anyone regardless of their neurodevelopmental status.
Research consistently indicates that women are more likely to be victims of coercive control compared to men. Through the use of manipulation, isolation, intimidation, and other tactics, perpetrators exert power and control over their partners, minimizing their autonomy and freedom. This pattern of abusive behavior, characterized by long-lasting psychological and emotional impact, reinforces gender inequality and reinforces harmful gender stereotypes. While it is important to acknowledge that both men and women can experience coercive control, the prevalence and severity of this type of abuse overwhelmingly affects women, highlighting the dire need for societal recognition and proactive intervention.
Coercive Control Laws: Protecting Victims, Empowering Change
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the insidious nature of coercive control within relationships. Governments around the world are taking decisive steps towards addressing this issue by passing laws aimed at combating this form of abuse. Coercive control laws serve as a crucial tool in protecting vulnerable individuals from ongoing psychological and emotional manipulation, tactics often used by perpetrators to dominate and control their partners or family members. By criminalizing coercive control, these laws send a clear message that psychological abuse is just as detrimental as physical violence. They create legal avenues for victims to seek justice and access the protection they desperately need. Moreover, such legislation also plays a pivotal role in raising public awareness and challenging societal norms that tolerate or trivialize coercive control. By enacting these laws, governments demonstrate their commitment to fostering healthy and respectful relationships, empowering survivors, and establishing a future where no one lives in the shadows of control and fear.
An increasing number of US states are beginning to acknowledge and address the issue of coercive control within their legal frameworks. Currently, several states have recognized and included elements of coercive control in their domestic violence laws, understanding that it is a form of abuse that can have severe and lasting impacts on victims. These states, which may vary in the specific language and definitions used, include California, Hawaii, Connecticut ,and Colorado. Several states are currently working on acknowledging coercive control in other ways. These states include illinois, New York and Washington. By acknowledging coercive control, these states are taking important steps towards providing comprehensive protection for survivors and holding perpetrators accountable for their manipulative and controlling behaviors.
Australia (NSW) made significant progress in addressing coercive control within the state by making coercive control a criminal offense. The passing of coercive control legislation marks a watershed moment in the fight against domestic violence and abuse. By criminalizing this manipulative behavior, NSW has taken a firm stance against the insidious tactics used by perpetrators to exert control over their victims. This legislation not only acknowledges the damaging effects of coercive control but also sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. Through this decisive move, NSW aims to empower survivors, protect vulnerable individuals, and create a safer society for all.
To receive assistance in escaping an abusive relationship or navigating post separation abuse, book a one on one session with Tori, a certified high conflict divorce consultant who focuses on family court strategy. To do so, start here.
Experts on Coercive Control:
Dr Evan Stark, https://evanstark.weebly.com/about.html
Dr Christine Cocchiola, https://www.coercivecontrolconsulting.com/
Dr Emma Katz, https://dremmakatz.com/