woman comforting a child

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse often begins with less violent assaults such as pushing. As the abuse continues, however, it becomes increasingly violent. Abusers often target areas of the body that are covered with clothing, because the injuries are less likely to be visible to others. Acts of physical abuse include:

  • Pushing
  • Restraining
  • Shaking
  • Slapping
  • Biting
  • Punching
  • Kicking
  • Throwing objects at the victim
  • Targeted hitting
  • Sustained beating
  • Abuse specifically-intended to cause a miscarriage
  • Use of weapons
  • Strangulation
  • Homicide





















The information found on this site is not to replace the one-on-one advocacy and services HAVEN provides. The visitor agrees not to hold HAVEN From Domestic Violence responsible for any damages that might result from using information provided on this site.

If you are in danger, call 911 immediately.

HAVEN is a United Way Agency

united way