More Than Just Superficial Wounds

What many don’t realise is that physical abuse is often the last form of abuse inflicted upon someone.

By: Yuthra Suresh

Domestic violence is often associated with physical abuse. From speaking to people from all walks of life, professionally and personally, this has been a common misperception. I suppose it is the ability to actually identify injuries, marks or bruises that makes it more real. Hence, most other forms of abuse are often disregarded or downplayed by individuals.

What many don’t realise is that physical abuse is often the last form of abuse inflicted upon someone. Most often, there are signs to look out for. Emotional abuse is the most common type of abuse that is downplayed. Common displays of emotional abuse include controlling behaviour, manipulation, and condescending and derogatory comments. Sexual abuse is also often disregarded when couples are in committed relationships.

Victims tend to have this perception that they are expected to accede to their partner’s sexual requests due to their relationship status. Hence, instances of marital rape or rape by intimate partners are often underreported. Financial abuse is also another lesser known form of domestic abuse. It occurs when the abuser controls financial aspects of the relationship leaving the victim dependent and helpless.

Common misperceptions regarding domestic abuse is that it occurs to people in certain demographic groups. However, that is far from the truth. Anyone could experience it although the intensity and severity may differ. Some individuals may be aware that what they are experiencing is indeed a form of domestic abuse. However, due to cultural or familial expectations or rules, they may not reveal it for fear of shame, loss of reputation or the refusal to air their “dirty laundry” out to others. For others, they may not realise they are experiencing it due to lack of information or cultural acceptance of it as a norm.

Nonetheless, individuals experiencing domestic abuse need to seek help for their own mental and physical health. Individuals inflicting the abuse need assistance to change their negative behaviour. Hence, it is imperative that individuals in these situations seek assistance from a mental health professional who will work alongside them through this journey.