Psychological Abuse within an intimate committed relationship was first made a crime in France in 2010, then the UK in 2015 and now Ireland May 2018, punishable by up to five years in prison under new legislation.
“Coercive behaviour can be as insidious and as damaging as physical violence and this must be recognised in law.” Plaid Cymru MP, Elfyn Llwyd, who introduced a Ten Minute Rule Bill on coercive control back in February, said he was delighted the government had recognised the urgent need for a change in the law.
Statement from the Department of Justice, Ireland. ‘The new offense of coercive control sends a clear, consistent message that non-violent control in an intimate relationship is criminal. The effect of such behavior may be as harmful to victims as physical abuse because it is an abuse of the unique trust associated with an intimate relationship.’
Antakya Biennial Artist Network, 2010.
Since I posted this piece on Emotional, Psychological Abuse a new law on domestic violence, making it illegal for someone to exercise ‘coercive control’ over their partner, will be unveiled by the UK Government this week. For more information please click on the link.
What is Emotional Abuse?
Abuse is any behavior that is designed to control and subjugate another human being through the use of fear, humiliation, and verbal or physical assaults. Emotional abuse is any kind of abuse that is emotional rather than physical in nature. It can include anything from verbal abuse and constant criticism to more subtle tactics, such as intimidation, manipulation, and refusal to ever be pleased.
Emotional abuse is like brain washing in that it systematically wears away at the victim’s self-confidence, sense of self-worth, trust in their own perceptions, and self-concept. Whether it is done by constant berating…
View original post 1,059 more words
On The Edge 