Coercive, controlling behaviour describes a pattern of behaviour where one partner uses control, intimidation or manipulation to dominate the other and can, but often does not include any physical violence.
In effect the controlling behavior often looks like;
Isolating from family and friends or support networks
Monitoring their movements, phone or online activity
Dictating how they should dress, who they see or speak to and where abouts they choose to go
Micro-managing their day to day life
The coercive behaviour looks like;
A pattern of threats , humiliation or intimidation used to harm, punish or frighten a partner.
Examples include;
Threats to harm themselves, children, pets or family members if the abused partner tries to leave
Repeated put downs, gaslighting or emotional abuse
Using jealousy or accusations to control someones behaviour
Threats to share intimate photos or private information
Causing the victim to not be able to say what they want or do what they want through fear of abusive consequences. In other words causing them to walk on eggshells around their partner
This is a pattern of behaviour ongoing within a relationship and not a one off argument.