By Nikki Buckstead, Child & Family Center President & CEO
Published by The Santa Clarita Valley Signal
When most people think about domestic violence, they picture physical abuse. Bruises, broken bones, black eyes, or other visible injuries. These are the images we often see in awareness campaigns, movies and news stories.
But what about the abuse we can’t see?
What about the person afraid to spend money without permission? The woman whose partner constantly monitors her whereabouts? The teenager whose boyfriend demands access to her phone? Or the husband repeatedly humiliated, threatened, and isolated from family and friends?
These are also forms of domestic violence. And while they may not leave physical scars, the emotional and psychological damage can be devastating.
As we conclude this four-part series for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I want to focus on recognizing the forms of abuse that often go unnoticed or are dismissed as part of a difficult relationship.
Throughout October, we’ve explored the connection between domestic violence and homelessness, how to support someone experiencing abuse, and the myths surrounding why survivors may remain in abusive relationships.
This final article brings us to another important conversation: understanding what abuse can actually look like.
Emotional and Psychological Abuse: The Invisible Wounds
Imagine being constantly criticized, belittled, or told you’re worthless. Your partner makes you question your decisions, your memory, and eventually, your own judgment.
Emotional and psychological abuse can include manipulation, humiliation, intimidation, threats and isolation from family and friends. It can also involve gaslighting, a form of manipulation that causes someone to question their perceptions or reality.
An abusive partner may alternate between affection and cruelty, leaving the survivor anxious and constantly trying to avoid another outburst.
Over time, these behaviors can erode confidence, independence and self-worth. Because there are no visible injuries, survivors may struggle to recognize or explain what they’re experiencing.
Financial Abuse: When Money Becomes a Weapon
Financial abuse is one of the most powerful ways an abusive partner can maintain control…