Define coercive control and provide examples of non-physical abuse.

• A. Defining it as a single isolated act of aggression.
• B. Referring only to financial coercion.
• C. Only physical acts like hitting.
• D. A pattern of behaviors intended to dominate and restrict a partner, including isolation, monitoring, threats, and gaslighting.

Answer: (D)

Coercive control is a pattern of behaviors aimed at dominating and restricting a partner’s freedom, not a single incident. It relies on ongoing tactics that erode autonomy and create dependence. Non-physical abuse includes isolating someone from friends and family, monitoring where they go and who they talk to, controlling money and resources, issuing threats or using intimidation, and gaslighting—making the partner doubt their memory or reality. These behaviors accumulate to establish power over the partner without needing physical violence. The description that matches this pattern and range of tactics is the best answer because it centers on ongoing control rather than isolated acts, a narrow focus on finances, or solely physical abuse.