Recognizing Abuse!

Recognizing that you are being abused is an important step. You may feel you need time to think about your situation. Or perhaps you have already made up your mind to leave. Whatever you decide, your safety is always the priority.

IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 911

If you are being abused it is important to remember:

  • You are not alone.
  • Domestic and sexual violence is against the law.
  • It is not your fault. You are not responsible for the abuser’s behavior.
  • There are things you can do to protect yourself.
  • We are here to help you 24-hours a day 570-421-4200
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Types of Domestic Violence:

Abusive behavior rarely shows up at the beginning of a relationship. In fact, many abusers can be exceptionally charming when they choose to be. Domestic violence can take several forms:

Physical Abuse

Pushing, Hitting, Beating, Inflicting Injury with weapons, Homicide, and Suicide

Verbal/Emotional Abuse

Insults, Humiliation, Isolation, Threats, Intimidation, Constant Monitoring, Checking In, or Stalking

Psychological Abuse

A person's self-worth is destroyed through harassment, threats, deprivation of food, and sleep.

Financial Abuse

One of the most powerful tactics used to gain power and control. This includes giving an allowance, not letting the victim have their own money, hiding family assets, running up debt, interfering with employment, or ruining credit.

Sexual Abuse

When sexual abuse occurs between spouses/partners, it is rape. When sexual abuse is inflicted on children or teenagers by an older family member, it is incest. 

Destruction of Property or Pets

The destruction of objects may also carry a message, "This time it's the car or the china; next time I could hurt you."

Reproductive Coercion

This type of abuse can include threats or acts of violence against a partner's reproductive health or reproductive decision-making. It's a collection of behaviors intended to pressure or coerce a partner into becoming a parent or ending a pregnancy.

General Safety Tips:

  • Learn your partner’s warning signals so you can get out before the violence starts.
  • Have a safety plan in case you have to leave in a hurry.
  • Talk with your children. They know that you’re hurting and might fear for your safety. They may want to leave as much as you do.
  • Call friends and relatives you can trust and talk about your concerns. You may discover that they are worried about you but don’t know how to ask you about the abuse.