Homepage > Relationships > Abuse
What is abuse?
Abuse is when one person hurts or bullies another person. Victims of abuse feel frightened and uncomfortable and are often made to do things against their will. Abuse can happen to anyone of any age. Violence in the home between two people is known as domestic violence. Child abuse is the term used when an adult harms a young person under the age of 18.
What forms of abuse are there?
Abuse can take many forms and can be:
- physical (hit or punched, shaken excessively, pushed/thrown around, suffocated, kicked, burnt or scalded)
- sexual (kissing, being touched in the genitals or breasts, being forced to touch another person’s genitals or breasts, being encouraged or forced to watch pornography, being forced to have any form of sexual activity)
- emotional (constant insults and threats, put downs, humiliation and controlling behaviour)
- neglect (being poorly clothed, being poorly fed, regularly being left alone, not being educated)
Bullying and domestic violence are also forms of abuse.
Worried that you are, or might be, being abused?
If you are being abused it is important to remember that it is not your fault. You don't have to put up with it. Say no and ask them to stop. Get help, you don't have to deal with this on your own. If you are worried or frightened tell someone that you can trust what is happening to you. Teachers or other staff at your school or college will help if you ask them to. You can also talk confidentially to ChildLine using the help line below.
Help lines
- ChildLine: 0800 1111
Useful websites
ChildLine
Advice site for children and young people.
The Hideout
Domestic violence – What it is and how it can make children and young people feel.
Women’s Aid
Information on domestic violence, refuge contacts and confidential help line.
Kidscape
Works to prevent bullying and child abuse.
Teenagers and Abusive Relationships - Directgov
Warning signs of abusive relationships
Victim Support
Charity for victims and witnesses of crime in England.
Refuge
Domestic violence help for women and children.
Respect
Respect's Young People's Services (YPS) focus on teenagers' use of violence in close relationships.
WHCM Counselling
Provides counselling for young people with a range of life issues.
Last updated: 07/01/11
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