Is Emotional Abuse Considered Domestic Violence?

 Posted on September 07, 2023 in Domestic Violence

In Illinois, emotional abuse is considered domestic violence if it is used to control or intimidate the victim. The abuser can be charged with a crime, even if they do not physically harm the victim.

Emotional abuse is a form of domestic violence that is often overlooked. It can be just as damaging as physical abuse, and it can have lasting effects on the victim's mental and emotional health.

Has someone caused emotional harm to you or someone you know? If you feel as though you are experiencing emotional abuse, there are many resources available to help you. The best option to handle legal matters in Illinois would be a domestic violence attorney.

What Constitutes Emotional Abuse?

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior that a person uses to control another person in an intimate relationship. It can be physical, sexual, emotional, or financial. Emotional abuse can take many forms, including:

• Verbal abuse: This includes name-calling, insults, threats, and put-downs.

• Victim isolation: This can involve controlling who the victim sees, talks to, or spends time with.

• Minimizing or denying the abuse: This is when the abuser tells the victim that the abuse is not real or that they are overreacting.

• Controlling the victim's finances: This can involve making all of the financial decisions or taking away the victim's access to money.

• Gaslighting: This is when the abuser tries to make the victim question their sanity.

What Are the Effects of Emotional Abuse?

Emotional abuse can have a significant impact on the victim's mental and emotional health. It can cause anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It can also make it difficult for the victim to trust others and have healthy relationships.

How Can I Seek Help for Emotional Abuse?

Encountering emotional abuse is a serious problem, but there are some people who can assist you. If you are experiencing emotional abuse, please reach out for help. There are many resources available, including:

• Domestic violence hotlines that can offer support and information about resources in your area

• Domestic violence shelters that provide a safe place to stay and help you get back on your feet

• Therapy that can help you heal from the emotional abuse and learn how to cope with the effects

• An experienced domestic violence lawyer that can help you understand your legal rights and options

Contact a Chicago, IL Domestic Violence Attorney

It is important to understand that emotional abuse is domestic violence. It is also important to remember that you are not alone. If you or someone you know is caught in an emotionally abusive environment, then consult with a Cook County, IL domestic violence attorney immediately. Curtis Ross of The Law Offices of Curtis Bennett Ross, L.L.C. has over 30 years of experience in cases like yours. Call the office at 312-984-1514 for a free initial phone consultation and set up a flexible appointment to discuss how he can help.