What is Domestic Violence and What Are Its Types, Causes, and Effects?

Understanding the Reality of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is one of the most under-reported yet widespread issues in India. It can happen to anyone—regardless of age, gender, education, or economic background. Many individuals experience emotional manipulation, controlling behaviour, or threats long before the abuse becomes physical.

If you or someone you know feels unsafe at home or experiences fear, intimidation, or constant degradation, it may be a form of domestic abuse. This blog explains what domestic violence truly means under Indian law, how to recognise it, and how legal help—especially from a divorce lawyer, female lawyers in India, or online lawyer consultation—can protect you.

Why Understanding Domestic Violence Matters

Domestic violence isn’t simply a “family matter”—it is a legally punishable offence. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) ensures that victims can access protection orders, residence rights, custody orders, and financial relief.

By the end of this article, you will understand:

• What domestic violence means legally
• Types of domestic violence
• Common causes
• Short-term and long-term effects
• Steps you can take to seek protection
• How VakeelSaab’s legal team can guide you with empathy and expertise

What is Domestic Violence? 

Domestic violence is any form of physical, emotional, sexual, verbal, or economic abuse inflicted by a partner, spouse, or family member living in the same household. Under Indian law, domestic violence includes physical injury, harassment, mental torture, financial control, threats, and any behaviour that endangers a person’s safety, dignity, or well-being.

It is addressed primarily under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, which protects women from abuse in marital and non-marital domestic relationships.

Types of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence does not always present as visible injuries. Many forms are subtle, gradual, and psychological. Here are the major types recognised under Indian law:

1. Physical Abuse

Physical abuse includes:

• Hitting, slapping, punching
• Kicking or pushing
• Using an object (belt, stick) to cause injury
• Burning or choking
• Forcing harmful substances (hot water, chemicals)
• Restraining movement

Even a single incident qualifies as domestic violence. You do not need repeated harm to take legal action.

2. Emotional & Psychological Abuse

Emotional abuse is one of the most common yet invisible forms of domestic violence. It includes:

• Humiliation, insults, name-calling
• Threatening divorce or abandonment
• Constant criticism
• Gaslighting (“you’re imagining things”)
• Social isolation—stopping you from meeting family/friends
• Monitoring phone calls, messages, or personal movements

This form of abuse damages confidence, mental health, and personal identity.

3. Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse includes:

• Forced sexual acts
• Non-consensual intercourse
• Coercion using fear, threats, or manipulation
• Denial of the right to use contraception
• Forcing degrading acts

Under Indian law, marital rape is recognised as cruelty under civil remedies, and women can seek protection orders even though it is not criminalised under the IPC.

4. Economic/Financial Abuse

Economic abuse occurs when the abuser controls financial resources. Common examples include:

• Restricting access to money
• Not allowing the woman to work
• Taking away salary or property
• Forcing her to sign financial documents
• Refusing basic expenses like food, medical care, or education for children

This form of abuse creates dependency and traps victims.

5. Verbal Abuse

Though often overlooked, verbal abuse can be equally damaging. It includes:

• Yelling or shouting during arguments
• Ridiculing appearance or abilities
• Using degrading language
• Threatening family members
• Insulting before others

6. Digital/Technological Abuse

With digital interactions increasing, so has online abuse:

• Monitoring social media or phone activity
• Spreading false information online
• Revenge pornography
• Tracking location without consent

What Causes Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence rarely emerges suddenly. It is typically rooted in deeper psychological, social, and cultural factors.

1. Patriarchal Attitudes & Gender Norms

In many households, traditional beliefs position women as “submissive” or dependent, enabling control, dominance, and entitlement.

2. Learned Behaviour

Children who grow up witnessing violence often normalize abusive behaviour as adults.

3. Stress, Financial Pressure & Substance Abuse

While stress or alcohol never justify abuse, they can act as aggravating triggers.

4. Low Self-esteem in the Abuser

People with deep insecurities may use power or dominance to feel in control.

5. Lack of Accountability

Social stigma around reporting domestic abuse, especially in India, often protects the abuser.

6. Relationship Conflicts

Miscommunication, mistrust, and unresolved issues can escalate into abusive patterns.

Effects of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence affects not just the victim but the entire family, especially children.

1. Physical Effects

• Injuries, fractures, chronic pain
• Disabilities from repeated harm
• Long-term health issues (migraine, hypertension)

2. Psychological Effects

• Anxiety, depression, PTSD
• Low self-worth
• Suicidal thoughts
• Feelings of helplessness and fear

3. Social Effects

• Isolation from support networks
• Difficulty maintaining work or social activities
• Stigma associated with reporting abuse

4. Effects on Children

Children who witness domestic violence face:

• Developmental issues
• Aggression or withdrawal
• Poor academic performance
• Risk of becoming victims or abusers later

5. Economic Effects

• Inability to work or earn
• Legal and medical expenses
• Loss of financial independence

Legal Remedies Available in India

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) offers civil remedies to protect women.

1. Protection Order (Section 18)

The court can stop the abuser from committing further violence, contacting you, or entering your workplace.

2. Residence Order (Section 19)

You cannot be removed from the shared household, regardless of ownership.

3. Monetary Relief (Section 20)

Includes:

• Medical expenses
• Loss of earnings
• Maintenance for wife and children

4. Custody Orders (Section 21)

Grants temporary custody of children to the mother.

5. Compensation Orders (Section 22)

Compensation for mental torture and emotional distress.

6. FIR Under IPC

You may also file FIRs for:

• Cruelty (Section 498A IPC)
• Dowry harassment (Dowry Prohibition Act)
• Assault or threat

If you’re unsure which remedy suits your situation, online lawyer consultation through VakeelSaab can help you make an informed decision.

Case Example (Anonymized)

A 32-year-old IT professional approached VakeelSaab after facing years of emotional and financial abuse. Her husband restricted her finances, insulted her in public, and threatened to take away their child. With help from our divorce lawyer in Delhi and our team of female lawyers in India, she obtained a protection order, secured custody of her child, and began maintenance proceedings. Today, she is financially independent and safe.

This case demonstrates how immediate legal action can transform someone’s life.

Practical Guidance: What You Should Do if You Face Domestic Violence

1. Document Everything

• Take photos of injuries
• Save messages, emails, call recordings
• Keep medical reports
• Share evidence with someone you trust

2. Tell Someone You Trust

Confide in a friend, family member, or counselor to ensure you're not facing this alone.

3. Seek Medical Attention

Medical records serve as important evidence and ensure your well-being.

4. File a Complaint

You can approach:

• Police station
• Protection officer
• Magistrate’s court
• NGOs or women’s helplines

5. Consult a Lawyer

A legal expert can help you seek protection orders, maintenance, child custody, and divorce if needed.

Best Practices: How to Stay Safe

• Create a safety plan with important documents and emergency contacts
• Store evidence securely
• Keep some cash and essentials ready
• Use private devices for communication
• Seek help sooner rather than later

Get Trusted Legal Help Today | VakeelSaab

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, you don’t have to face it alone. VakeelSaab’s expert team—including divorce lawyers, female lawyers in India, and specialists offering online lawyer consultation—is here to guide you with compassion and professionalism. Contact us today for confidential, personalized legal support to protect your rights and rebuild your life.

FAQ Section

1. Is domestic violence only physical?

No, it includes emotional, financial, sexual, and verbal abuse.

2. Can men file domestic violence cases in India?

PWDVA protects women, but men can seek remedies under other laws like 498A (if falsely accused), or file civil cases for harassment.

3. How long does a domestic violence case take?

It depends on evidence, court workload, and complexity. Interim protection can be granted quickly.

4. Can domestic violence be a ground for divorce?

Yes, cruelty is a legal ground for divorce under Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Special Marriage laws.

5. Do I need a lawyer to file a case?

Not legally, but having an experienced divorce lawyer ensures stronger representation and faster relief.