Physical abuse is the use or threat of physical violence to control a victim and maintain power. It is used to enforce other, more subtle, forms of abuse. It is the one of the easiest to identify, and it is usually the first sign to others that there is a problem.

Emotional abuse is the use of non-physical behaviors to control, intimidate, and frighten the victim. It is more subtle and difficult to identify, but it is just as damaging as other types of abuse. It often involves the use of verbal and non-verbal communication both in private and public places.

Sexual abuse is when one partner controls the physical and sexual intimacy in a relationship. This involves acting in a way that is non-consensual (without mutual agreement between partners) and forced. It can include sexual coercion (making the victim feel obligated to perform sexual acts)

Financial, or economic, abuse is when a partner weaponizes the financial autonomy of the other partner. It is another subtle form of abuse used to further isolate and control the other partner and to prevent them from leaving the relationship. This can involve limiting access to individual or shared assets, limiting the victim’s ability to work, or sabotaging credit scores.

Digital abuse is the use of technology to bully, harass, stalk, intimidate, or control a partner. It is an extension of other forms of abuse, and it can be used by current or former abusive partners.

Cultural abuse is when a partner attacks or attempts to control a victim through their identity, cultural background, and spiritual beliefs. It is used to deeply wound the victim, isolate them from their spiritual or Tribal community, and to control how they interacts with the world. It is rarely discussed as a form of abuse outside of the contexts of organized religion or colonization. However, it is one of the most devastating and destructive forms of domestic abuse. Unfortunately, it is difficult to identify, as many victims may not realize that they are experiencing abuse.

Stalking is when an individual tries to gain or maintain power and control over another person by using repeated behaviors to make a victim uncertain and afraid for their safety and/or the safety of others. These behaviors can include unwanted attention, harassment, and/or threats. While strangers can use stalking against you, perpetrators are more likely to be people you know, such as current or former partners, friends, associates, or family members.

Signs of stalking may initially be disguised as romantic or loving gestures, but they become more obvious as the perpetrator increases their efforts to persuade or gain control. In many cases, stalking quickly crosses into unlawful or criminal behavior.

It is especially dangerous in situations where a victim leaves or attempts to leave an abusive relationship. The former partner may use every resource at their disposal to track and monitor the victim, whether physically or digitally.