Types of Abuse

Abuse:

Abuse is a violation of an individuals's human and civil rights by any other person or persons. It may take the following forms:

Physical abuse - hitting, slapping, kicking, inappropriate restraint or sanctions and force feeding. Misuse/inappropriate withholding of medication.

Emotional/psychological abuse - intimidation by word or deed, humiliation, harassment, enforced social isolation including cultural discrimination, blaming and controlling threats.

Discrimination - Treated less favourably than one would treat another person based on their colour, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, status etc.

Financial abuse - Misuse and/or misappropriation of monies, benefits and/or property.

Neglect/deprivation - Inadequate care, neglect of physical and emotional needs, deprivation of food, clothing, medical attention or aids, denial of basic right to make informed choices, failure to provide access to appropriate social, health, and educational services.

Sexual abuse - Unwanted physical and sexual contact e.g. caresses, intercourse with somebody who lacks the capacity to consent, rape and assault by penetration, sexual harassment and assault, displaying pornographic literature or videos. Ensure that when the right to an independent lifestyle and choice is at risk the individual concerned receives the appropriate help, including advice, protection and support from the relevant agencies; and ensure that the law and statutory requirements are known and used appropriately so that vulnerable adults receive the protection of the law and access to the judicial process.