There is no ‘one look’ to a person causing harm.
The person causing harm may be any gender, religion, ethnicity or age. They can have any education, job, family status or past experiences.
But there are some common characteristics of people causing harm. They usually try to:
- isolate the person experiencing abuse from family and friends
- minimize and deny their behaviour
- exert power and control over others
- blame the person they are causing harm to
- distrust others
They may also have experienced or witnessed abuse themselves, have low self-esteem and not be in touch with their own feelings. Whatever their reasons, experiences or motivations, it is not okay to harm someone else.
Causing Harm and the Law
Sometimes the person’s behaviour may be illegal. For example, hitting someone or sharing intimate images without consent are criminal offences for which they could go to jail. Contacting someone when a court order says not to is also illegal. Read the Abuse and the Law page to learn more.
Men &
Statistics show many people causing harm are male. Men & is a website offering trusted, accessible support, information, and resources for men. The website covers the emotional, mental and relational health challenges men face. Visit menand.ca to learn more.