Against the violence against women

12 days of actions

Against the violence against women

12 Signs to Recognize Domestic Violence

November 25
to December 06 2026

As part of the 12 Days of Action against Violence Against Women, we invite you to learn to recognize 12 signs that may indicate someone is experiencing domestic or family violence.

Every situation is unique, so the signs can vary from person to person. The accumulation of several indicators may reveal a situation of violence. Stay alert!

12 Signs to Recognize Domestic Violence

  • Happy hours are opportunities to socialize with colleagues and strengthen interpersonal relationships. In a relationship affected by domestic violence, the abusive partner may try to isolate their victim in order to maintain greater control.

  • For many, Friday is associated with relaxation and rest. For someone experiencing domestic violence, this day may mean being in the presence of their abuser, without the chance to escape to work.

  • Remote work days reduce contact with the outside world and may increase the time a person experiencing domestic violence spends with their abuser.

  • Holidays are usually a time to enjoy special moments with loved ones. For someone experiencing domestic violence, this period may mean being isolated with their abuser, which can intensify the violence.

  • For most people, the holiday season brings positive emotions. In a relationship affected by domestic violence, the victim may spend this period isolated with their abuser. Violence may intensify during this time.

  • In today’s society, technology is everywhere. When someone is experiencing domestic violence, the abuser tries to control every aspect of their life. Even when not physically present, they may harass the victim through calls or messages to maintain power over the situation.

  • Many everyday factors can explain why someone takes less care of themselves. In the context of domestic violence, the victim may feel exhausted and lack the energy or motivation to maintain their appearance or routines. It is also possible that the abuser controls their clothing or personal care. The reasons are numerous and varied.

  • Being in a relationship with violence is extremely challenging. Comments from the victim’s social circle about her partner can also be difficult to bear. There are many possible reasons why she may excuse her partner’s behavior.

  • Social abuse can be difficult to detect. Subtle and gradual, it allows the abuser to gain increasing control over the victim. Isolation can reduce the likelihood that the victim will leave the relationship.

  • In a relationship affected by domestic violence, instability is an additional challenge for the victim. The abuser’s unpredictable reactions can sometimes force the victim to make last-minute decisions.

  • To create a healthy and open work environment regarding the disclosure of violence, offer your team our workplace awareness program Sentinelles. We will help you master the essential tools to identify signs in an employee experiencing domestic or family violence.

  • Regardless of the form of domestic violence used by the abuser, the victim and her children are at risk. If the victim fears for her safety or that of her children, it is important to refer her to appropriate services to address the situation.

Back to site

Share

Subscribe to the newsletter

Stay informed of our activities and partnerships

Subscription Confirmed

Your subscription to our list has been confirmed.

Leaving guide

QR Code

Scan the guide on your cellphone

Files

Save the file on your device

Download PDF