Abstract
Anyone with experience of abuse will know that “violence” is only one form of exercising control. Growing evidence shows the negative effect of other behaviours, like coercion and psychological manipulation. Recent legislation, such as Section 76 of the Serious Crime Act 2015 prohibits “coercive and controlling behaviour”, and is a welcome addition to existing law and a step forward in combating the wide range of domestic abuse criminality.
However, the effectiveness of such legislation is often dependent on identifying and recognising abuse, especially so that it can be reported to the police. While a lot of abuse might happen behind closed doors, the recent popularity of reality TV shows like Love Island, The Only Way is Essex (Towie) and Ex on the Beach have heightened our exposure to the intimate relationships of strangers, and the signs which point to abuse.
However, the effectiveness of such legislation is often dependent on identifying and recognising abuse, especially so that it can be reported to the police. While a lot of abuse might happen behind closed doors, the recent popularity of reality TV shows like Love Island, The Only Way is Essex (Towie) and Ex on the Beach have heightened our exposure to the intimate relationships of strangers, and the signs which point to abuse.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Specialist publication | The Conversation |
| Publication status | Published - 10 Jul 2018 |
