Relationships Ireland

Counselling for Domestic Violence

Abuse in intimate relationships takes place behind closed doors and most people in abusive relationships feel a sense of shame which makes it difficult to break the silence. It is important to break the silence, inform yourself and look for help. Talking to a trusted family member or friend is an important first step.

What is Domestic Abuse?

It is common for victims in abusive relationships to minimise what is happening and put up with what is quite often severe physical and emotional abuse. Domestic abuse includes elements of severe physical violence and psychological and emotional abuse which victims find intimidating and distressing. In situations of domestic abuse, experts in the field increasingly distinguish between two types; situational violence in which low-level mutual physical aggression occurs in the context of an argument between partners e.g. pushing, shoving, grabbing and personality-driven violence which is severe emotional and physical violence used to dominate, control and manipulate a romantic partner. The psychological abuse is similar in both but in situational violence it occurs less frequently. Additionally violent perpetrators whose behaviour is influenced by personality traits are likely to display anti-social or borderline personality traits.

Personality-driven domestic violence including high levels of physical aggression and intense emotional and psychological abuse is characterised by attempts to dominate and isolate. This type of behaviour is against the law. Irish legislation in relation to domestic abuse makes provisions for the protection, safety and welfare of spouses and other persons in domestic relationships.