ethical DFV practice — Articles

GASLIGHTING AS COERCIVE CONTROL: WHAT PRACTITIONERS NEED TO KNOW

This post situates gaslighting within DFV as a patterned tactic of coercive control that undermines self-trust, isolates victim-survivors, and reshapes what feels “real” over time. It outlines how victim-survivors describe these dynamics, why social power and systemic disbelief can amplify harm, and what it can look like in practice when someone presents with uncertainty rather than “clear” disclosures. It also offers grounded considerations for responding in ways that support safety, dignity, and agency without getting pulled into debates about details.

Coercive Control, Practice ReflectionsDaphne White10 September 2025The Orange Storygaslighting, psychological abuse, coercive control tactics, victim-survivor experience, credibility and disbelief, power and control, ongoing risk, ethical DFV practice, practitioner reflection, system constraints, professional manipulation, trauma responsesComment

GROUNDING IN DFV PRACTICE: A SIMPLE SKILL THAT SUPPORTS SAFETY, REGULATION AND CHOICE

Grounding is a practical, trauma- and violence-informed skill that can support victim-survivors to remain present, engaged, and able to make choices during moments of overwhelm. This post explores what grounding is, why it matters in DFV contexts, and how it can be used ethically within everyday practice without replacing safety, risk, or advocacy work. It situates grounding as a supportive response rather than a therapeutic intervention.

Trauma- and Violence-Info, Practice ReflectionsDaphne White10 July 2025The Orange Storygrounding, trauma responses, practitioner reflection, safety and regulation, ethical DFV practiceComment