system constraints — 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

WORKING WITH CLIENTS THROUGH CHOICE: STRENGTHENING EMPOWERMENT IN DOMESTIC AND FAMILY VIOLENCE PRACTICE

This post explores what choice-centred practice can look like in domestic and family violence work, and why meaningful options matter in contexts shaped by coercive control, trauma responses, and system pressure. It considers how choice can narrow unintentionally through workload, risk aversion, or limited service environments, and how transparency and collaboration can help practitioners hold both safety and agency in view.

Practice Reflections, System NavigationDaphne White10 May 2025choice-centred practice, informed decision-making, safety planning, warm referrals, system constraints, ethical reflection