Violence can be physical, psychological, sexual, or involve different kinds of restrictions and control, often in combination. Sadly, violence is common in places where people should feel safe – between partners, within families, and among friends. Violence in close relationships is always wrong, illegal, and punishable by law. Here you can find ways to get help.
Domestic violence, violence in romantic relationships, and violence in other close relationships occur in all countries, cultures, social groups, and environments – including student life. People who are affected often find it difficult to put into words what they are experiencing, and many find it hard to report the perpetrator themselves. Sometimes this is because the violence escalates gradually, for example in a relationship that alternates between positive and negative behaviour. Sometimes it is because violence and oppression have always been present within the family.
In almost all cases, violence is wrong, illegal, and punishable by law. There are no places, situations, or circumstances where you should accept violence, oppression, control, or feeling unsafe, especially not in your own home.
What counts as violence?
Physical violence
Hard gripping, being restrained, pushing, hitting, kicking, or being prevented from sleeping or leaving home.
Psychological violence
Harsh words, humiliation, unpredictability in the relationship (such as gaslighting), threats, mockery, stalking, or controlling behaviour, clothing, finances, and social contacts.
Sexual violence
Unwanted sexual comments or touching, sex against your will or when you are unconscious or unable to defend yourself, photography or filming without consent, sexual coercion, or pressure that makes you afraid to say no.
Honour-based violence
Restricting and controlling clothing, social life, behaviour, social media, sex life, marriage, studies, or career choices. Honour-based violence and oppression are often carried out collectively by several people.
Financial abuse
Controlling household finances or pressuring someone for money.
Digital control
When someone wants access to, or control over, your computer, phone, or social media, and tries to control what you do and who you are in contact with.
Human trafficking and sexual exploitation
Exploiting, pressuring, or controlling someone into selling sex. In Sweden, it is illegal to procure or purchase sexual services, both in person and remotely (for example via telephone or webcam). Please note that sugardating, which is common in student environments, is often linked to or leads to prostitution.
Neglect
When, for example, people with disabilities or children are denied basic needs such as food, hygiene, clothing, supervision, attention, love, appreciation, comfort, medication, assistive devices, or access to help and medical care.
What can you do?
If you do not feel able to leave a dangerous relationship, remember that help and protection are available. Contact Socialtjänsten (social services) for guidance. Call 112 if the situation is urgent.
If you hear fighting or violence at a neighbour’s home, consider knocking on the door. Ask other neighbours to join you so you are not alone. Call 112 if the situation feels urgent. Simply interrupting the situation can make a big difference, for example by knocking on the door and then stepping away while waiting for the police.
If you or someone close to you is affected, do not wait to ask for help or advice. It could save a life. If you are looking for support or more information, use the links below.
112 – ongoing violence and emergencies
Call 112 if you or someone close to you is experiencing ongoing violence or is in immediate danger.
Socialtjänsten (social services reception unit)
Contact Socialtjänsten if you want to report concerns about a child, young person, or adult who may be at risk or suffering harm. Your concerns do not need to be confirmed, and you do not need proof. Contact Socialtjänsten and let them help you with your concerns.
Sociala jouren (emergency social services)
When Socialtjänsten is closed, Sociala jouren handles urgent social issues that cannot wait until the next working day. Cases involving children at risk, violence, and addiction are prioritised.
Kvinnofridslinjen
Kvinnofridslinjen is a national support helpline and chat service for anyone who has experienced threats or physical, psychological, or sexual violence, including relatives and professionals.
Kriscentrum – also for people struggling with anger and aggression
Kriscentrum offers counselling and support for anyone who has been exposed to, witnessed, or used violence in a close relationship.
1177 Vårdguiden
1177 Vårdguiden is Sweden’s national healthcare information service. It also provides information about domestic violence and violence in close relationships.
Videos with more information about violence