Unpacking Domestic and Family Violence: The Key Terms

Sometimes, it can be hard to understand the language used around domestic and family violence which makes it even harder to access help.

Here are some simplified terms and definitions that may help you best understand domestic and family violence.

Definitions

Abuse – an action that intentionally causes harm or injures another person.

Blackmailing – the act of getting money from people or forcing them to do something by threatening to tell a secret of theirs or to harm them.

Coercive control – a pattern of controlling behaviour, used by a perpetrator to have control over another person by making them fearful or by isolating them.

Consent – when a person freely and voluntarily agrees to participate in an interaction.

Domestic violence – violence or abuse that occurs within an intimate relationship, such as between spouses or romantic partners.

Domestic and family violence – any behaviour in an intimate or family relationship which is violent, threatening, coercive or controlling, causing a person to live in fear.

Emotional abuse – a type of abuse where psychological methods like manipulation, gaslighting or threats are used to control a person and make them fear for their safety.

Financial abuse – a type of abuse where money is controlled or restricted as a form of power.

Gaslighting – a form of manipulation where the perpetrator causes the victim to question their reality or the truth.

Intimate-Partner Relationship – a close personal relationship characterised by emotional connection; regular contact; ongoing physical contact and identification as present or former partners.

Manipulation – where someone controls someone or something to their own advantage, often unfairly or dishonestly.

Mandatory Reporting – legal requirement for professionals to report suspected cases of domestic violence or abuse (often applies to children if they are suspected of being in danger).

Perpetrator – the person who is committing the abuse or violence towards another person.

Physical Abuse – a form of abuse where acts of violence cause physical harm (eg. hitting, punching, choking).

Restraining Order – An order made to prevent a perpetrator from contact with a person when there is family violence present or where a person fears personal violence from another person.

Sexual Abuse – a form of abuse where a non-consensual sexual act occurs or where a person is coerced into a sexual act.

Social Abuse – a form of abuse where a person is socially isolated from family, friends or social groups.

Survivor – someone who has lived through or experienced domestic and family violence.

Trauma – the lasting emotional response that often results from living through a distressing event.

Verbal abuse – a form of abuse where language is used to hurt, intimidate, or control someone (e.g., yelling, insults).

Abbreviations

AVO – stands for Apprehending Violence Order

DFV – stands for Domestic and Family Violence

DV – stands for Domestic Violence.