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FAQs
What is Coercive Control?
Coercive control refers to a pattern of behaviours or actions intended to dominate, manipulate, and intimidate someone, often through threats, humiliation, or other forms of abuse. It is a subtle yet powerful form of control that can leave victims feeling trapped, isolated, and powerless. Abusers often use coercive tactics to punish, hurt, or instil fear in their victims. Some common examples of coercive control include:
- Isolating the victim – Sabotaging relationships with family and friends to create social isolation.
- Verbal abuse – Insulting, demeaning, or belittling the victim to erode their self-worth.
- Exerting control – Dictating daily routines, restricting contact with others, and micromanaging the victim’s life.
- Threats and intimidation – Threatening harm to children, pets, or loved ones as a means of control.
- Exploitation and manipulation – Forcing the victim to take part in illegal activities against their will.
- Withholding support – Denying access to medical care or necessary resources.
- Limiting independence – Restricting the victim’s ability to leave the home or access transportation.
Coercive control can have devastating emotional, psychological, and physical effects. Though it may not always involve physical violence, its impact is just as harmful, leaving victims feeling isolated and unable to escape the abuser’s grip. Recognising coercive control is the first step in breaking free and seeking support.
What is Gaslighting?
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which an individual is deliberately provided with false or misleading information, causing them to question their own memory, perception, or reality. This insidious tactic can leave victims feeling disoriented, confused, and doubting their own sanity.
In severe cases, gaslighting may be paired with physical abuse, further deterring victims from reporting the behaviour. Though it leaves no visible physical marks, the emotional and psychological damage caused by gaslighting can be profound and long-lasting, often likened to brainwashing.
Recognising gaslighting can be difficult due to its subtle and deceptive nature, but it is an incredibly harmful form of control that can lead to enduring mental health issues.
The Five Key Signs of Gaslighting:
- Manipulation – Twisting situations or events to gain control over the victim.
- Denial – Refusing to admit something happened or dismissing the victim’s concerns as untrue.
- Misdirection – Diverting attention to confuse or distract the victim from the truth.
- Contradiction – Saying one thing but doing another to create uncertainty and doubt.
- Lying – Repeatedly presenting false information to undermine the victim’s trust in their own judgment.
Gaslighting is a deeply manipulative tactic that can erode a person’s confidence, independence, and mental well-being. Recognising the signs is the first step to breaking free from its damaging effects and regaining control over your sense of reality.
What is Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)?
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition characterised by extreme and persistent narcissistic traits that present in a pathological way. While many people may occasionally display narcissistic tendencies, those with NPD demonstrate a chronic pattern of behaviours that significantly impact their relationships and interactions.
Individuals with NPD often:
- Have an inflated sense of self-importance and abilities.
- Crave constant admiration, validation, and reinforcement.
- Exhibit a limited capacity for empathy or emotional connection with others.
In family proceedings, while NPD may not always be formally diagnosed or prevalent, its presence can complicate matters. Understanding the dynamics of narcissistic behaviour and having experience managing these cases is essential to ensure proper safeguards are in place. This helps prevent unnecessary disruptions, allowing the case to progress smoothly and adhere to the established course of action. Recognising and addressing the impact of narcissistic personality traits is key to maintaining focus, protecting vulnerable parties, and achieving fair outcomes in family law cases.
