Braidwood Says No to Violence | Category 9: Technology facilitated abuse

If you or someone you know feels scared or unsafe as a result of a family member or intimate partner's actions, you may wish to seek assistance. Family Violence doesn't always come in the form of physical threats, and behaviours become increasingly frequent and harmful.

It's surmised that at least half of the homeless women Australia-wide are fleeing domestic violence. With the knowledge that controlling behaviours become more frequent and dangerous overtime, keeping women and children safe is a priority.

It is often important for people who experience family violence to have a safety plan, in case the violence escalates and life is threatened. When helping a friend, you may also suggest making contact with a domestic violence support service, Legal Aid or the police. For immediate help if someone is in danger, call 000.

If you are helping someone who's experiencing family violence, remember she/he is the expert. Someone who resides in an abusive home knows the situation better than you do, and has the best sense of whether the abuser will carry through on threats. When encouraging a friend to seek assistance, respect their choices and be available as a compassionate ear. Encouraging autonomy can empower someone who has been controlled to have the confidence to leave and seek safety.

An emerging area of concern in family violence is the use of digital technology to threaten, harass, monitor and control another person remotely. A controlling family member could use mobile phone apps to track an individual, or monitor emails without permission. This form of violence is illegal.

Examples of technology facilitated abuse, otherwise known as cyber-harassment or cyber-stalking, also include impersonating you online, spreading rumours, posting embarrassing or untrue information about you, and sharing intimate content. Constant messaging or texting in a way that makes you feel intimidated is a form of violence. Harassment and threats on social media or dating sites, and posting private information with the intention of humiliating, controlling or scaring a person are all forms of violence.

If you are experiencing family violence, there is help for you to be safe. There are both public and private resources for help or support.

Local therapist Hollie Bakerboljkovac at Braidwood Holistic Therapies is trained in DFV response, as well as working with men who do violence. 42438032 or admin@braidwoodholistic.com.au

This is the tenth and final article in a series on Domestic and Family Violence. In March, the full content will be made into an online booklet available from Braidwood Says No to Violence, via the Braidwood Life Centre website.