Types of abuse

Learn about the different ways abuse can happen and what each type means. This section explains the signs to look out for and why recognising them matters.

Contents

Physical abuse

Abuse can happen in many ways. Physical abuse is when someone hurts another person’s body or uses force in the wrong way.

This can include:

  • hitting, slapping or pushing
  • assault (hurting someone on purpose)
  • misuse of medication
  • restraint (holding someone back when it’s not needed)
  • physical punishment