Manitoba
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Family Violence Prevention Program

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What is Family Violence?

FVPP BannerIt’s when people in intimate personal relationships use abusive behaviour to control and hurt their partners. An intimate relationship can be between people who are married, living together, dating, separated or divorced.

Family violence comes in many forms. It can be physical, sexual, emotional or financial. It can happen in any family and affects women and men of all ages, cultures, income levels, religions, professions and abilities.

Please note: Family violence is often referred to as “domestic violence” or “domestic abuse.” The term “domestic violence” is used on this site.

Common Types of Abuse:  Examples of Domestic Violence/Abusive Behaviours:
Physical     Unwanted physical contact - slapping, pinching, punching, pushing, kicking, hair-pulling, burning, biting, and cutting
Sexual    Unwanted sexual contact - sexual touching, forced sex, forced humiliating acts, offensive sexual comments, control of birth control, or being forced to watch or take part in sexual acts with a third party
Psychological/Emotional   Being forced, by another person, to watch or take part in behaviour that is psychologically/emotionally harmful – threats, humiliation, put-downs, name-calling
Financial   Use of financial information or other resources (ex: property, possessions) to control and cause harm to another person

Groups at Risk

People most likely to be abused are: women, children, older adults and persons with disabilities. Because these groups are often seen as having less power and control, they are often at greater risk. While personal or job stress, alcohol/drug use, and tough economic times are not the cause of domestic violence, they can often make it worse.

Without help, abusive relationships only get worse.

Help is available

Contact one of the resources (see link below) for more information and find out how to create your own protection plan. If you are in an abusive relationship, or you know someone who may be, call 1-877-977-0007.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911

Click here for information on creating a protection plan
Click here for a list of resources and supports in Manitoba