When is someone at risk?

Family violence occurs in many forms, and is often subtle and gradual. It is important to remember that the violence is never your fault: it is a choice made by the perpetrator to exert power and control over you.

The Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre has a quick checklist that can determine whether you (or someone you know) is at risk of family violence.

While family violence can occur to any person at any time, there are certain factors that increase the likelihood and severity of family violence. These include (but are not limited to):

• Pregnancy and new birth – Family violence often starts or gets worse during pregnancy and is associated with increased rates of miscarriage, low birth weight, premature birth, foetal injury and foetal death. Family violence during pregnancy is a significant indicator of future harm to the woman and her child.

• Leaving the relationship – Ending a relationship with an abusive partner can sometimes increase risk, particularly within the first few months. It is extremely important to have a safety plan (link to safety plan page) in place, even once you have left an abusive relationship.

• Threats to kill – Evidence suggests that a perpetrator’s threat to kill is often genuine, and can predict continued, often worsening abuse.

• Non-lethal strangulation – Research indicates choking/strangulation is a key risk factor for future, more severe family violence and an increased risk factor for intimate partner homicide.