Understanding Abuse and Your Rights
Abuse can take many forms. It is not always physical. Abuse can be emotional, verbal, financial, digital, sexual, or involve threats or control. Oklahoma protects survivors of many types of harm - whether the abuse happens in an intimate partner relationship, a family, a household, or another close relationship. Learn what abuse looks like, how it affects people, and what your rights are.
Types of Abuse
Knowing the type of abuse can help you identify the right resources and safety strategies. Advocates can guide survivors through legal protections and support options specific to each situation. Different types of abuse may qualify for different safety steps or protective orders.
Below is a simple comparison of three common types of abuse.
What is Abuse?
Under Oklahoma law, “abuse” includes:
- Physical harm
- Threats
- Stalking or harassment
- Kidnapping
- Intimidation
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Sexual violence
- Destruction of property
- Cyberstalking or unauthorized access
(Okla. Stat. tit. 22 § 60.1)
A person does not have to be physically injured for the law to protect them.
Common Abusive Behaviors
Abuse can include:
Physical Abuse
Hitting, slapping, pushing, choking, throwing objects, using weapons.
Emotional Abuse
Insults, threats, humiliation, isolation, gaslighting, yelling.
Financial Abuse
Taking your money, forcing you to work or not work, ruining your credit, controlling bank access.
Digital/Online Abuse
Reading your messages, tracking your phone, hacking accounts, online threats.
Sexual Abuse
Any sexual activity without consent. Oklahoma recognizes sexual assault and rape within relationships.
Threats & Coercive Control
Threats of harm, threats to take the children, controlling everyday choices, isolating you from others.
About Protective Orders
A protective order is a court order that can help protect you from abuse, stalking, harassment, or contact from the other person. It can set legal limits on what the other person is allowed to do - such as contact you or coming near you. You do not have to go through this process alone.