Coercive Control

Understanding what is coercive control

Abuse does not have to be physical or sexual to be an offence. Coercive control can include emotional and psychological abuse and can be very subtle, so is harder to identify. By its very nature, coercive control can instil confusion and self-doubt in the victim, but Harrogate Family Law can help you be clear about what is taking place and prepare a safe route out of the situation for you and your family.

Coercive control can happen in any type of relationship, but it is most common due to gender-based privilege. 60-80% of women who report forms of physical or sexual abuse have also suffered from coercive control.

What are the signs of coercive control?

There are clear indications that the relationship you are in has spiralled towards coercive control, even if you have received no physical harm and the relationship is not necessarily “toxic”. Coercive control happens when:

• You are isolated from your support system, i.e. family and friends
• Your activity is being monitored all day everyday – known as invasive surveillance
• Your freedom and autonomy is being denied – such as access to money or health and body freedom
• You are subjected to name-calling, shaming or criticism
• Your children are being turned against you, known as parental alienation
• You are subjected to jealous accusations

What are my options when faced with coercive control?

Coercive control can become a reportable offence if:

• You are fearful that it will turn to other forms of abuse against you or your children
• The behaviour is sustained and substantial and is deemed as unreasonable because it is affecting your mental or physical health

You could report this matter to the police, but Harrogate Family Law also have specialist expertise in assisting with these issues. We can help you stop this cycle of abuse by recognising the signs, keeping contact with your support network and identifying a safe place for you and your children to escape to and a plan to do this, if necessary.

Let Harrogate Family Law clearly and concisely explain your legal standing when faced with coercive control, and we can use our expertise to put you back in a safe place and fully autonomous of your safety and wellbeing.