In recent years, there has been increased awareness about the issue of coercive control within relationships. 

Coercive control refers to a pattern of behavior used by one person to dominate, manipulate, and control their partner. This form of abuse is often insidious and can have severe psychological and emotional impacts on the victim. Understanding the signs of coercive control is crucial in order to recognize and address this harmful behavior. 

In this blog post, we will explore some of the key signs of coercive control within relationships.

Red Flag No1. Isolation and Monitoring:
One of the primary tactics used in coercive control is isolating the victim from friends, family, and support networks. The abuser may monitor and control the victim's communication, restrict their access to transportation, or limit their social interactions. This isolation serves to increase the abuser's control over the victim and diminish their independence.

Red Flag No 2. Emotional Manipulation and Gaslighting:
Coercive control often involves emotional manipulation and gaslighting, where the abuser distorts the victim's perception of reality. They may constantly undermine the victim's confidence, belittle their achievements, and make them doubt their own memory or sanity. Gaslighting tactics are aimed at gaining power and control over the victim by making them question their own thoughts and experiences.
Red Flag No 3. Financial Control:
Another sign of coercive control is when the abuser exerts control over the victim's finances. This can include controlling access to money, limiting their financial independence, or forcing the victim to account for every penny spent. By controlling the finances, the abuser maintains power and can further restrict the victim's autonomy.
Red Flag No 4. Threats and Intimidation:
Coercive control often involves threats and intimidation as a means of maintaining dominance and instilling fear in the victim. The abuser may threaten physical harm to the victim, their loved ones, or even pets. These threats create an atmosphere of fear and control, making it difficult for the victim to assert their independence or seek help.
Red Flag No 5. Monitoring and Invasion of Privacy:
Abusers may excessively monitor the victim's activities, including their phone usage, social media accounts, or online presence. They may demand constant updates on the victim's whereabouts or insist on having access to their personal devices. This invasion of privacy serves to maintain control, reinforce power imbalances, and further isolate the victim.

Recognizing the signs of coercive control within relationships is essential for early intervention and support. It is important to remember that coercive control is a form of abuse and NOT a normal part of a healthy relationship, whether it is a romantic, platonic, or familial relationship. 

This level of abuse in the UK is now illegal!

If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs, it is crucial to seek help from trusted friends, family, or professional organizations that specialize in supporting victims of abuse. 

Together, we can work towards raising awareness, breaking the cycle of coercive control, and fostering healthier relationships built on respect, equality, and autonomy. 

Whilst I do not assist with couple or family trauma therapies, I do have referral partnerships in place if you feel that you need help please get in touch today. I will be happy to get the assistance you need.