Psychological abuse now a crime after law change

“Groundbreaking” new domestic abuse laws have come into force in Scotland.

Law enforcement officials say the new legislation makes it clear that coercive and controlling behaviour is a crime.

The Scottish Parliament passed the Domestic Abuse Act in February last year, creating a specific offence of domestic abuse. It covers not just physical abuse, but psychological and emotional treatment and coercive and controlling behaviour, where abusers isolate their victim from their friends and relatives or control their finances. It also recognises the adverse impact domestic abuse can have on children.

The Act also requires courts to consider imposing a non-harassment order on an offender convicted of a domestic abuse offence to protect their victim from further abuse.

Justice secretary Humza Yousaf said: “The Domestic Abuse Act makes absolutely clear that coercive and controlling behaviour is domestic abuse and a crime. I am proud Scotland is leading the way with this groundbreaking legislation, which uniquely recognises the effect of domestic abuse on child victims as well as adults.”

A campaign to increase public understanding of domestic abuse and to encourage victims to seek help has been launched to coincide with the legislation coming into force

Assistant Chief Constable Gillian Macdonald, crime and protection lead for Police Scotland, said: “For the first time, it will allow us to investigate and report the full circumstances of an abusive relationship.”