Ringrose Law expert give advice on the initial signs of domestic abuse — love bombing

In April, the CPS provided updated its guidance on manipulative behaviours in an abusive relationship with a focus on “love bombing”, writes Charlotte Godwin, of Ringrose Law.

This guidance has now suggested that “love bombing” is a form of emotional abuse.

Love bombing is a technique used by many abusers where they will continuously carry out seemingly loving acts, such as sending flowers and admitting their love early on in the relationship in order to gain control of their victim.

These acts will usually be extravagant to make their victim feel wanted, often smothering them in love.

They will then express their affection intermittently while abusing the victim.

“Love bombing” usually takes place at the start of a relationship in order for the perpetrator to gain the trust of the victim.

Many victims are unaware as to the concept of “love bombing” and instead are coerced by these acts to continue their relationship with the perpetrator.

The perpetrator’s behaviour often makes their victims become dependent on them.

Women’s Aid has highlighted that “although love bombing might seem innocent, or even romantic, it is a controlling tactic of abuse which can be frightening for a victim or a warning sign that abuse is escalating.”

The CPS’s guidance has been praised as a step forward in recognising the signs of domestic abuse.

With the introduction of coercive and controlling behaviour becoming an offence in 2015, there is now recognition that domestic abuse does not just include physical abuse.

Instead, it can include emotional, financial, and sexual abuse.

“Love bombing” is just one of many signs of coercive and controlling behaviour.

Other signs include:

• Isolating from friends and family
• Watching activity
• Restricting freedom
• Gaslighting
• Criticising a person

If a person is experiencing any of these types of behaviours, they will therefore require the necessary support.

Ringrose Law offers services for those seeking protection and a 24/7 domestic abuse support contact helpline for those requiring instant support.

It can be contacted on 07739 748 675.