Family Violence Prevention

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What is family violence?

To address family violence, it’s essential to understand what it is and its various forms. Family violence involves a misuse of power within a relationship built on trust and dependence. When someone experiences family violence, their well-being, security and survival are threatened.

Types of family violence

  • domestic violence – refers to violent or abusive behaviours in an intimate, dependent or trusting relationship.
  • intimate partner violence – means harmful actions (physically, sexually or psychologically) by a current or past partner or spouse.
  • sexual violence
  • child abuse, neglect and sexual exploitation
  • elder abuse and neglect
  • spousal or partner abuse
  • parent or guardian abuse
  • sibling abuse
  • being exposed to another person’s abuse
  • pet cruelty

Source: Alberta.ca

Patterns of abuse

  • Physical abuse
  • Emotional and psychological abuse (manipulation, isolation from friends and family, intimidation)
  • Financial abuse (controlling money, blocking financial access)
  • Sexual abuse
  • Verbal abuse (constant criticism, yelling, demeaning language)
  • Threats and intimidation (threatening harm to loved ones, involving children through manipulation or threats)
  • Stalking (persistent following, monitoring, or showing up uninvited)
  • Gaslighting (causing the victim to doubt their own perceptions)

Family and Community Support Services (FCSS)

FCSS can help if you:

  • Need help creating a safety plan for yourself or family.
  • Want to be connected with services, supports and referrals for yourself or others.
  • Have questions on the impacts of family violence.
  • Are concerned about your loved ones being involved in an abusive relationship.
  • Have concern about an individual’s abusive behaviours or about your own abusive behaviours towards family members.

FCSS can help access resources for:

  • finances,
  • legal advice,
  • housing options and
  • physical and mental health supports.

Please contact FCSS at 780-929-1006 for additional information.

How you can help

Family violence prevention is a shared responsibility… Learn more about what you can do, as family, friends, community or employers. Visit Alberta.ca’s How Albertans Can Help page >>