Understanding violence to better prevent it.

In Canada, different terms are used to describe the same reality - family violence, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, or abuse.

All refer to situations where one person tries to control, harm, or intimidate another within a family or intimate relationship.

Family Violence can happen between:

spouses (married, separated, divorced, or common-law),

parents and children (biological, adoptive, foster, or step),

siblings, and

extended family members (grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws).

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) includes violence between:

current or former spouses,

common-law or dating partners. In New Brunswick, same-sex couples have the same rights and protections as all families.

Types of abuse include:

Physical abuse – hitting, kicking, or any physical harm.

Emotional abuse – name-calling, humiliation, threats, control, or isolation.

Financial abuse – controlling or limiting access to money.

Stalking/harassment – following, spying, or sending unwanted messages.

Sexual abuse – forcing sexual acts or ignoring consent and boundaries.

Asking for help is a sign of strength and courage, not weakness.

If you are in danger:

Call 911 for emergencies.

For confidential support, contact Chimo Helpline (1-800-667-5005) – available 24/7.

More info:

At AMINA, we believe that every person deserves safety, respect, and support.

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