Coercive Control

Coercive control is a pattern of behaviour used to intimidate, manipulate, and dominate another person.

While it may not leave physical marks, its psychological impact can be devastating and long-lasting - especially when the behaviour continues post-separation, often through the family court system or the Child Maintenance Service (CMS).

Common Forms of Coercive and Controlling Behaviour

Examples of controlling behaviors

Examples of controlling behaviours may include those listed below:-

Isolating you from friends, family, or support networks

Dictating what you wear, eat, or how you spend your time

Monitoring your communications or movements (online or in person)

Tracking your movements using your phone, car, or other technology

Preventing access to emotional, medical, or legal support

Gaslighting—causing you to question your memory or perception

Financial control— restricting or controlling your income, spending, or employment

Emotional manipulation, threats, or humiliation

Threatening or intimidating you physically

Humiliating, degrading, or repeatedly putting you down

Using children or finances as tools of punishment or control

Making you feel afraid of the consequences of “non-compliance”

These behaviours can continue long after a relationship ends, often hidden within contact disputes, legal processes, or financial obligations.