Domestic and family violence happens in all communities, and victim-survivors and perpetrators of domestic violence are present in churches and Christian homes.
Domestic violence might look like a person publicly humiliating their partner, or a woman who seems scared and fearful around her partner, or a husband who answers on behalf of his wife, or a woman who shares that she’s not allowed to attend a church event. These might seem like minor issues when isolated, but they likely mask the full extent of control the victim-survivor is experiencing.
Knowing how to recognise the signs, behaviours, and patterns of domestic and family violence is the first step to caring for those in your community and church and knowing how to support them safely.
Understanding what domestic violence looks like also helps you reflect on respect and safety in your own relationships.
