Coercive Control

What is Coercive Control?

Coercive control is a form of psychological and emotional abuse that has long been used to dominate and manipulate another person, often in the context of domestic or sexual abuse. While it’s not a new concept, it can be difficult to describe because it involves subtle, ongoing tactics designed to create fear, dependence, and confusion. Abusers use coercive control to strip away their victim's autonomy, trapping them in a cycle of manipulation and control. Examples of coercive control include isolating the victim from family and friends, controlling their movements, who they can talk to, and even what they wear. Other tactics include humiliation, degrading comments, giving the silent treatment, bombarding them with messages, or pressuring them into unwanted sexual activity. These actions are meant to make the victim feel powerless and to instil a sense of self-doubt and blame.

In Northern Ireland, coercive control is now recognised under the Domestic Abuse & Civil Proceedings Act (NI) 2021, which came into force in February 2022. This law criminalises patterns of non-physical abuse, protecting victims of coercive control even when there is no physical violence involved. Raising awareness of coercive control and educating society about this form of abuse is crucial in providing support and protection for those affected.