Coercive and Controlling behaviour
Being a victim of controlling and coercive behaviour can happen to anyone, of any age, gender, disability, race and ethnicity.
Spotting the signs of this kind of behaviour isn’t always easy, and it can be hard to accept that the person you love, might in fact be controlling you.
Some key signs to look out for include:
- Partners checking your phone and social media messages, and becoming jealous/paranoid if you speak to other people
- Being stopped from seeing or made to feel guilty for wanting to see friends, family and work colleagues, both in and out of work
- Controlling money, and giving you a small amount of cash to spend on groceries, and maybe even asking to see the receipt
- Deciding your outfits for you, or putting you down when you make a change to your appearance
- Being made to go shopping together to ensure you don’t buy anything for yourself.
Domestic abuse is not always immediately obvious or visible, but this behaviour is not normal or acceptable.
Those suffering often don’t identify themselves as victims. Sometimes they just need help to take the first step and realise their relationship is unhealthy.
If you recognise any of these signs perhaps in your own or a friend’s relationship, you are not alone. We are here to help and will support you when you feel ready to reach out to us:
- Facebook – send us a private message to /DerbyshireConstabulary
- Twitter – direct message our contact centre on @DerPolContact
- Website – complete the online contact form derbyshire.police.uk/ContactUs.
- Phone – call us on 101.
Derbyshire Constabulary and our partner agencies are working together to offer support to victims, ensuring that they know that they don’t need to suffer in silence and that help is available.
Find out more about domestic abuse, and where to find help on the following pages on our website: