Recognizing Danger 

We now know that coercive control is synonymous with danger. It can lead to serious or fatal violence, particularly when the victim is preparing to leave or has recently separated from her partner.  

Femicide, in a conjugal context, is one of the most predictable forms of murder. There are always warning signs. To be able to act, we must first recognize these signs and know that they represent a danger to the safety of a woman or her children.  

The victim's life may be in danger, even if there is no physical violence. 

• The perpetrator loses his hold on the victim, either during the relationship or after separation.
• The partners separate.  
• The perpetrator loses hope of resuming the desired relationship or family life.
• He actively monitors the victim.
• He is obsessively jealous or refuses to accept the arrival of a new partner (real or imagined).  
• He escalates the level of violence or increases its frequency. He varies the forms of violence.  
• He suddenly changes his behaviour.  
• He isolates the victim.
• The victim is afraid or, on the contrary, unafraid, even though the situation seems dangerous.
• The perpetrator makes references to suicide. 

As a professional or someone close to a victim, by being alert to coercive control, you will help to:

• Prevent repeated violence and its escalation.  
• Quickly establish a safety net (physical and psychological) around the victim and her loved ones.
• Hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.