Coercive Control = Danger 

In Canada and elsewhere, women are tragically killed, most often by their partners or ex-partners. If we knew more about the signs and risks, we could prevent these murders.

Several studies show that coercive control in a relationship increases the risk of serious or fatal violence, especially when the victim is trying to leave or has just separated from her partner.  

Recognizing these ''red flags'' as danger signals is crucial, as intimate partner homicide is not always preceded by physical violence.  

• In 92% of murder cases studied in the UK, coercive control was present.
• On average, 75% of spousal murders in Canada take place when separation is imminent.
• For almost 1 in 3 victims, murder or attempted murder was the first act of physical violence. 

As a professional or someone close to a victim, if you spot these signs, you can help to:

• Prevent violence from reoccurring and escalating.
• Rapidly put physical and psychological protection in place for the victim and those close to her.
• Hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. 

• Physical violence does not always precede femicide by an (ex)partner.
• There are always warning signs: coercive control is a very important one.  
• If we learn to spot the signs of coercive control, we can help save lives.