Women in Canada live at greater risk than men of domestic violence, sexual assault and harassment, and sex trafficking
Canadian Women’s Foundation
GBV is violence perpetuated against someone based on their gender or perceived gender. It is intimately tied to the patriarchal structure of society, and is further amplified by other forms of discrimination, such as – racism, ageism, colonialism, ableism, homophobia and poverty.
This is violence that includes, but is not limited to physical, sexual, psychological and financial violence
Hitting, shoving, slapping, forced sleep deprivation, failure to provide for basic needs
Any act or comment that is sexual in nature which happens without consent. Rape, sex trafficking, stealthing, child sexual abuse, sexual harassment
Isolation from family/social supports, unremitting criticism, surveillance, threats to harm, name calling, stalking behaviour, humiliation
Controlling or stealing money, fostering dependency, making financial decisions without asking or telling partner.
This is any of the pattern of behaviours listed above used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship.
Often, emphasis is placed on planning around physical safety, but it’s important to consider your emotional safety as well. Emotional safety can look different for different people, but ultimately it’s about developing a personalized plan that helps you feel accepting of your emotions and decisions when dealing with abuse. Below are some ideas for how to create and maintain an emotional safety plan that works for you.
Seek Out Supportive People: A caring presence such as a trusted friend or family member can help create a calm atmosphere to think through difficult situations and allow for you to discuss potential options.
Identify and Work Towards Achievable Goals: An achievable goal might be calling a local resource and seeing what services are available in your area, or talking to one of our advocates at The Hotline. Remember that you don’t have to do anything you aren’t comfortable with right now, but taking small steps can help options feel more possible when you are ready.
Create a Peaceful Space for Yourself: Designating a physical place where your mind can relax and feel safe can be good option when working through difficult emotions that can arise when dealing with abuse. This can be a room in your house, a spot under your favorite tree, a comfy chair by a window or in a room with low lights.
Remind Yourself of Your Great Value: You are important and special, and recognizing and reminding yourself of this reality is so beneficial for your emotional health. It is never your fault when someone chooses to be abusive to you, and it has no reflection on the great value you have as person.
Remember That You Deserve to Be Kind to Yourself: Taking time to practice self-care every day, even if it is only for a few minutes, really creates space for peace and emotional safety. It’s healthy to give yourself emotional breaks and step back from your situation sometimes. In the end, this can help you make the decisions that are best for you.
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“Women in Canada live at greater risk than men of domestic violence, sexual assault and harassment, and sex trafficking.
Why is it urgent to address gender-based violence?
HERE ARE SOME COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN:
1. Since crime rates in Canada are falling, is violence against women still a serious problem?
2. Isn’t there less domestic violence now than in the past?
Source: Canadian Women’s Foundation (2018). canadianwomen.org
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