Dynamics of Domestic Violence

Issues of power and control

Actions by one partner to control the other partner are abusive.  An abusive partner might attempt to control what the other partner does or who she sees.  Control may take the form of restricting the partner's freedom to make personal and independent decisions.  Sometimes this control is gained and maintained through threats or acts of physical abuse or like punching holes in the wall or destroying her property.  Sometimes the abuse is emotional like criticism and insults that undermine the partner's self-esteem.  Sometimes there is an element of jealousy and control through stalking and monitoring the partner's phone calls and activities.  Sometimes abuse creates a dependency upon the abusive partner by denying access to money.  Sometimes access to children or threats to their safety are used to control and prevent an abused partner from leaving the relationship.

The "Power and Control Wheel" is a general guide that describes ways the abuser can take control, and helps some women put names to the behaviour of an abusive partner: