Gender-based violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) is when someone is hurt, controlled or harmed because of their gender or how others see their gender. Sometimes the terms ‘acts of violence based on gender’ and ‘gendered violence’ are used to describe this form of abuse.

GBV can affect anyone – women and girls, men and boys, LGBTQ+ individuals. In Scotland, GBV is defined as ‘any form of violence used to establish, enforce or perpetuate gender inequalities and keep in place gendered orders’.

GBV can happen in relationships, at home, in public or online. 

What does GBV look like? 

Here are some examples:

  • Physical: pushing, hitting, shoving, slapping, biting 
  • Sexual: unwanted touching, sexual comments or pressure to do something sexual 
  • Emotional/psychological: insults, put downs, threats and manipulation
  • Online: sharing private images, stalking on social media
  • Financial: controlling financial decisions and money

Coercive control

It can be hard to spot the signs and know the difference between someone being caring and controlling. You’ll need to look at their pattern of behaviour.  

Are they: 

  • isolating you from friends and family 
  • threatening to harm themselves  
  • getting upset when you text or hang out with other people 
  • accusing you of flirting with other people 
  • monitoring or controlling your social media accounts  
  • tracking your location via GPS 
  • rushing the relationship's pace 
  • saying things like “If you loved me, you would…” 

Coercive control is someone behaving in ways that take away another person’s freedom and independence by using manipulation, threats or pressure. It can seriously affect how someone feels, making them feel confused, trapped and scared. 

If you’re worried that you or a friend might be in a controlling relationship – whether it’s with a partner, friend or family member – talk to us.

A safe and respectful campus 

Gender-based violence has no place at the University of Edinburgh. We are all part of a community that values kindness, fairness and respect. The University’s Dignity and Respect Policy sets out what that means in practice and reminds us that everyone deserves to feel safe and supported.

Dignity and Respect Policy

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