Recognising the Signs of Coercive Control:
The signs of coercive control can be hard to spot. People who use coercive control to get what they want can be good at hiding it from others, and their abuse can be subtle and targeted.
Some of the Signs of Coercive Control Include:
Controlling who a person sees, what they wear, and where they go: Restricting the victim’s social interactions, clothing choices, and movements.
Monitoring or tracking everything a person does: Using technology or other means to keep constant surveillance on the victim.
Controlling everyday needs: Such as finances, medication, food, or exercise.
Regularly criticising or blaming the victim: Manipulating them to doubt themselves and their experiences.
Forcing someone to have sex or do sexual things: Using coercion or threats to obtain sexual compliance.
Stopping a person from following their religion or cultural practices: Preventing the victim from engaging in their spiritual or cultural activities.
Threatening a person, their children, family, or friends: Using threats to instil fear and maintain control.
Manipulating co-parenting arrangements or child support payments: Using children as a tool to exert control after a relationship ends.
The Impact of Coercive Control
Many people who experience coercive control feel trapped and afraid. Their self-esteem and confidence may have been slowly worn down by repeated abuse, making it difficult to leave a relationship or get help.
Consequences of Coercive Control:
- Physical harm and injury.
- Emotional and psychological distress.
- Financial dependence and insecurity.
- Social isolation and loss of support networks.
- Spiritual and cultural alienation.
What Can I Do?
If you think you might be experiencing coercive control, contacting a confidential support service for advice is a good first step. If you’re concerned that someone you know might be experiencing coercive control, or if something doesn’t seem quite right, you can help by choosing a safe place to talk to the person alone and letting them know you’re worried about them.
