Psychological abuse: how to prosecute and what is the evidence base

Many become victims even in their own home, and endure violence for years. In Ukraine, there is a punishment for causing this type of damage. What is the evidence base and where to go - said Mikhail Prisyazhnyuk, the host of the acute social talk show "One for All" at STB.

In accordance with Ukrainian legislation, psychological violence is a form of domestic violence that includes verbal abuse, threats, including against third parties, humiliation, harassment, intimidation, other actions aimed at limiting the expression of the will of a person, control in the reproductive sphere, if such actions or inaction caused the affected person fears for their own safety or the safety of third parties, resulting in emotional insecurity, inability to protect themselves, or harm to mental health person.

“The Law“ On Preventing and Countering Domestic Violence ”clearly states that the commission of psychological violence is punished, and this is correct. Any suppression of the will of a person, adult or child, this is psychological pressure and violence. And such violence must necessarily be counteracted by legislation and law enforcement agencies. This is not necessarily about imprisonment, although this option is also provided. But when you are constantly oppressed, put pressure on you, create unbearable conditions and conditions, the culprit should be punished for this. For example, correctional labor. I think occupational therapy is very helpful. When a person does a good job, then he will think about whether it is necessary to oppress the household or whether it is worth being more loyal ",

- says Mikhail Prisyazhnyuk.

It is imperative to protect your rights. In addition, you need to think about the issue of evidence in advance.

“To say that it is easy to prove this kind of violence is not. In our country, it happens that even crimes with physical consequences are not so easy to prove. But asking for help and defending your rights is a must! I believe that it is always advisable to record video and audio, as well as have witnesses who can confirm your words. For example, neighbors or acquaintances. Contact law enforcement agencies, the police. There is also a national hotline 1547 on combating domestic and gender-based violence. It works around the clock and anyone can apply to it. You can be provided with psychological and legal support, and, if necessary, an emergency response from law enforcement officers, ”- the expert adds.