As we close out October and Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I would like to reflect on several terms and definitions surrounding domestic violence, intimate partner violence and coercive control. By defining something, we validate it and the reality it represents.
The term coercive control encompasses a pattern of power, control, intimidation and oppression that one experiences at the hands of their partner or spouse.
Tactics of coercive control include isolating one from friends and family, monitoring, gaslighting, humiliating, repeated put-downs and more.
Coercive control is used to maintain a relationship of dominance over a partner and often instills an almost constant fear in the other party.
The phrase “domestic violence” is used to emphasize violence that occurs at home, the one place a person should feel the safest. By using the term, “domestic violence,” the context of intimate violence is highlighted and the image of a safe and tranquil home is challenged.
Yet, confusion begins when “coercive control” is used as equal to all “domestic violence.” Not all intimate partner violence follows the systematic pattern of control, intimidation, fear and domination present in a relationship built on coercive control.
The term, “intimate partner violence,” encompasses the fact that the control is not restricted to spousal relationships or to partners living together but may be present in both teen and adult dating relationships.
For more information on domestic violence, services offered and how you can help, contact the Southwest Crisis Center at 507-376-4311.
