Abuse Quote by Lundy Bancroft
“Physical aggression by a man toward his partner is abuse, even if it happens only once. If he raises a fist; punches a hole in the wall; throws things at you; blocks your way; restrains you; grabs, pushes, or pokes you; or threatens to hurt you, that's physical abuse. He is creating fear and using your need for physical freedom and safety as a way to control you.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Why Does He Do That? by Lundy Bancroft, 2002
Any act of physical aggression, even a single incident, is abuse because it creates fear and seeks control over a partner’s safety and freedom.
In simple terms: Physical aggression is abuse.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and reject any physical aggression.
Themes
abuse
control
fear
Mood
alert
concerned
Type
warning
educational
When to use this quote
- relationships
- legal contexts
- support services
- personal safety
Key Concepts
intimate partner violence
power dynamics
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What signs indicate a partner is being controlled?
- How can you support someone experiencing physical aggression?
A Different Perspective
Some may argue isolated incidents are not patterns, but fear and control are present regardless of frequency.
![“A lot of people think that domestic violence is if someone hits, kicks, [or] punches you.” quote by Robin McGraw](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b0/robin-mcgraw-62760_domestic-violence_a-lot-of-people-think-that-domestic-viol_612718.jpg)
