The Many Faces of Abuse

A common misconception is that abuse is physical violence only. In fact, abuse comes in many forms. Any behaviour which threatens, coerces and/or oppresses another human being constitutes abuse.

EMOTIONAL ABUSE - words or actions that control, shame, humiliate and/or erode self-esteem, threats, insults, intimidation, devaluation, extreme possessiveness, withdrawing love/sex/approval as "punishment", and withholding the basic necessities of life are all examples of emotional abuse.

HARASSMENT - unwanted, unsolicited remarks, behaviours or communications in any form based on a prohibited ground of discrimination, i.e., sexual orientation, race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, disability, age, record of offences, marital status, family status.

PHYSICAL ABUSE - includes actions such as punching, hitting, slapping, kicking, choking and pushing.

SEXUAL ASSAULT/ABUSE - any form of non-consensual sexual activity including unwanted touching or kissing, forced sexual intercourse, uncomfortable or degrading sexual actions, forced viewing of pornography.

STALKING - a pattern of unwanted attention which usually becomes more aggressive with time. Includes being threatened and/or repeatedly watched, followed, telephoned, sent unwanted gifts; destruction of property; showing up uninvited; harassment of family/friends.