When discussing domestic violence, physical abuse is often the focus. However, other forms of abuse, such as economic abuse, are common yet overlooked. Economic abuse is a method used to control a partner by limiting their access to financial resources, which can trap them in an abusive relationship. In today’s economic climate, where costs of living are rising, understanding economic abuse is more critical than ever.
What is Economic Abuse?
According to the Power and Control Wheel, part of the Duluth Model, economic abuse includes:
- Preventing a partner from getting or keeping a job.
- Controlling access to money.
- Giving a partner an allowance.
- Taking their money.
- Preventing them from knowing about or having access to family income.
Other tactics may involve opening credit lines in a partner’s name, gambling with their money, or denying them access to necessities.
The effects of economic abuse are significant, often leaving victims unable to meet basic needs for hygiene and food or care for their children. This creates economic insecurity, preventing victims from building savings or becoming self-sufficient. Economic abuse also contributes to psychological distress, causing anxiety, stress, and a diminished quality of life. The inability to afford medical care or medication can further harm physical health, trapping victims in a cycle of dependency and making it difficult for them to leave the relationship. Victims may also suffer from depression, guilt, and a loss of self-esteem.
Economic abuse affects not just individuals but society as a whole. It can lead to lost productivity in the workplace, increased poverty, homelessness, financial insecurity, damaged credit scores, and overwhelming debt for the victim.
What is Economic Partnership?
In contrast, healthy financial relationships are built on economic partnership, as defined by the Duluth Equality Wheel. Economic partnership involves making joint decisions about money and ensuring both partners benefit from financial arrangements. Open communication is key to a healthy financial relationship.
Before living together, partners can discuss their ability to contribute to rent, utilities, and other expenses. They can also talk about how costs will be divided and whether bank accounts will be joint or separate. A clear and adaptable budget that both partners agree on can promote fairness and financial stability throughout the relationship.
Understanding Economic Abuse in Domestic Violence
Economic abuse is a widespread form of domestic violence, affecting nearly 99% of cases, according to a 2021 Forbes Magazine report. This form of abuse traps victims by controlling their financial resources, making it difficult for them to escape abusive relationships. Despite its prevalence, 78% of Americans do not recognize financial abuse as a form of domestic violence. It’s important to understand that domestic violence can occur even in the absence of physical abuse.
Get Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing financial abuse, seek help by contacting the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.
Call Family Counseling Service at 630-844-2662 or contact us online to access resources and support for healing from domestic violence. You don’t have to go through it alone—we’re here to help.
Leave A Comment