Abuse in the South Asian community takes place in various forms â ranging from physical, emotional, sexual, and/or financial abuse. There are multiple cultural factors and stigmas that contribute to the underreporting and barriers to seeking help for South Asians.
Culturally inclusive and sensitive interventions and support are necessary to address abuse in South Asian communities. Through awareness, education, and empowerment efforts, more support can be provided for survivors of abuse.
Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used by one person in a relationship to gain control over the other. Domestic violence can be present in many types of relationships including intimate partners, spouses, family members, or cohabitants. Similar to abuse, domestic violence can also take place in physical, sexual, emotional, and/or financial abuse. There are many warning signs for domestic violence, including physical injuries, frequent absences from work or social activities, isolation from friends and family, controlling behavior, and constant criticism.
Some available resources for victims of domestic violence are helplines, shelters, counseling, legal assistance, and advocacy organizations.