
Types of domestic abuse
Learn the signs

Physical
Physical violence includes hitting , kicking , punching , scratching and more. Physical violence is the most common form of abuse. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men experience physical abuse from a partner in their lifetime.

Psychological abuse includes threats , lying , withholding affection and more. The signs of psychological abuse are silence , withdrawal , insomnia , low self esteem , changes in appetite. 91% of survivors experienced some form of psychological violence in their relationship.

Financial abuse includes stopping the victim from having a job or stable income. Economic abuse can also include exerting control over income, spending, bank accounts, bills and borrowing. 95% of cases of domestic abuse involve financial abuse.

Sexual abuse includes forced sex, forced prostitution , denial of sexual privacy and more. It's estimated that 2.3% of adults aged 16 years and over were victims of sexual assault (including attempts) in the year ending March 2022 survey; this equates to an estimated 1.1 million adults.