When Someone Has a History of Violence: Disclosure, Accountability and Safety
One of the most frustrating phrases survivors hear during divorce is: “The marriage has broken down due to irreconcilable differences.” Sometimes that is true. People do grow apart. They fall out of love. They want different futures. Those are genuine irreconcilable differences. But abuse is not one of them. When a relationship ends because one… Read More Stop Calling Abuse “Irreconcilable Differences”
If you were too frightened to report the abuse at the time, you are not alone. Fear is one of the most powerful weapons an abuser has. Many survivors stay silent because they fear violence, retaliation, not being believed, losing their children, or simply surviving another day. But if you are now in a place… Read More It’s Never Too Late to Find Your Voice
Many cases of domestic abuse go unreported because of fear. Research across many countries consistently shows that a large proportion of survivors never contact the police or other authorities. Common reasons include: Fear of retaliation or increased violence if the abuser finds out. Fear of being killed or seriously injured. Fear of not being believed… Read More Fear or threats
15 Days from Freedom Fifteen days from freedom. Of course, he chose today. By now, I wouldn’t expect anything less. Three years ago, I made a choice I deeply regret. Despite my knowledge and experience in trauma therapy, I believed I could manage the situation once I escaped the isolation of France. I convinced myself… Read More “Your Body Knows Before Your Mind Accepts It.”
People who kill a partner or ex-partner at homewith a knife or other weapon could face an extra 10 years in prison under plans to strengthen sentencing laws, in a bid to tackle violence against women. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgqnzpwrpzo?
There are times when silence is not about secrecy. It is about responsibility. For legal reasons, some matters simply cannot be discussed or disclosed. Ongoing investigations, court proceedings, confidential information, and legal obligations often require restraint. Remaining silent does not mean there is nothing to say. It does not mean the truth does not exist.… Read More Some Things Cannot Be Discussed
There are many legitimate and illegitimate reasons why someone might wipe a computer’s hard drive or keep an old phone locked. However, in the context of an investigation or legal dispute, these actions can raise questions and may prompt further examination. Some possible reasons include: Innocent reasons Protecting personal privacy before selling or disposing of… Read More Erasing Evidence
Sadism in families refers to situations where a family member gains satisfaction, pleasure, a sense of power, or emotional gratification from causing another family member pain, distress, humiliation, fear, or suffering. This does not always involve physical violence. In many families, sadistic behaviour is emotional or psychological. Examples can include: Deliberately humiliating a child, partner,… Read More Sadism
What I learned very quickly was this: when a relationship becomes dangerous, evidence matters. When restraining orders are ignored, when boundaries are repeatedly crossed, and when family members close ranks, gang up on you, or attempt to intimidate and bully you into silence, your feelings and memories are important—but evidence is essential. The Guardia Civil… Read More Evidence remains.
Forensic psychologists can examine phone and computer data, but there’s an important distinction in howand what part they handle. 1. What forensic psychologists actually do A forensic psychologist typically focuses on the psychological interpretation of digital evidence, such as: Messaging patterns (texts, WhatsApp, social media) Emails and written communications Search history (behavioural patterns) Tone, intent, escalation of behaviour over time… Read More Forensics
