Putting a name to the hidden pattern behind domestic abuse

Every six days, a woman in Canada is killed by an intimate partner, and yet the topic of intimate partner violence (IPV) – more commonly referred to as domestic abuse – is rarely talked about. Because of this, many of the red flags that precede physical violence are often missed. These warning signs can include a pattern of controlling behaviour, which is called coercive control.

Elizabeth Renzetti is a columnist for The Globe who has been reporting on and off on violence against women for over 30 years. She tells us about the stigma surrounding IPV, how to recognize coercive control and the debate surrounding the criminalization of it.

Warning: This episode discusses domestic violence and may be upsetting to some listeners.

If you think you, or someone you know, may be suffering from intimate partner violence, you can find support through the following resources:

Crisis lines for each province and territory

Assaulted Women’s Helpline: Toll-free: 1-866-863-0511

Canadian Women’s Foundation

Shelter Safe

SOS in Quebec: 1-800-363-9010 or text 1-438-601-1211

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