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Forms of violence

Violence has many faces: it can be physical, psychological, sexualized or digital and can occur in the family, in the social environment or by strangers. On this page, you will find an overview of different forms of violence, their characteristics and effects. The individual topics will help you to better recognize and classify violence and find out what protection and support services are available.

Einbruch

Burglary

A burglary not only violates your privacy, but can also leave you feeling afraid and insecure. This page provides information about first steps, rights and offers of help for those affected.

Genitalbeschneidung

Genital circumcision

Female genital mutilation is a serious human rights violation. Here you can find out what this means, what the possible consequences are and where those affected can get protection and advice.

Geschlechterrollen

Gender roles

Rigidly defined role models contribute to violence occurring or not being recognized. Read how gender roles work and why it is important to question them.

Gewalt gegen Frauen

Violence against women

Violence against women has many faces - physical, psychological or digital. This page shows you how to recognize warning signs, get help and protect yourself.

Gewalt gegen Männer

Violence against men

Men also experience violence - it often goes unrecognized or is taboo. This page provides information about forms of male violence and shows where help is available.

Gewalt in der Pflege

Violence in care

When care becomes a burden, violence can occur - against those in need of care or carers. Here you will find information, warning signs and contact points for support.

Der Text Hasskriminalität abgebildet auf einer Tastatur

Hate crime

Hate is directed against people because of their origin, religion, sexuality or ideology. Find out what hate crime is and how you can protect yourself and others.

Ein Mann droht auf einer Couch sitzenden Frau Schläge an

Domestic violence

One in four women living in Germany between the ages of 18 and 74 has experienced some form of physical or psychological domestic violence from a current or previous relationship partner, but men are also affected.

Kindesmisshandlung

Child abuse

When children experience violence, they need special protection. Here you can find out what child abuse looks like, how you can help and where support is available.

Eine Person droht einem sitzenden Opfer durch seine Faust

Bodily injury

Anyone who physically abuses another person or harms their health is committing a criminal offense that can be punished with a prison sentence of up to five years or a fine under the Criminal Code.

Loverboys Opferschutzportal NRW

Loverboys

Loverboys feign love in order to exploit and control people. Read how this scam works and how you can protect yourself or others from it.

Eine wartende weibliche Person an einem Laternenpfosten

Human trafficking

Human trafficking is a serious crime - often associated with exploitation and violence. Find out how to recognize the signs and where those affected can find help.

Zwei männliche Personen lästern im Hintergrund zu einer weiblichen Person

Bullying

Bullying can have a severe psychological impact - whether at work, at school or online. The site shows ways out of the spiral of violence and names contact points for support.

Politischer Extremismus

Political extremism

Extremist groups attack democratic values and use targeted violence. Here you will find information on forms of political violence and protection options.

Mann mit Pistole und fordernder Geste

Robbery

A robbery is a violent assault that often leaves deep scars. This page helps you to know your rights and shows you what steps are important after the crime.

Sexualisierte Gewalt

Sexualized violence

Sexualized violence can take many forms - but it always violates boundaries and dignity. Find out what you can do as a victim and where help is available.

Sexueller Missbrauch von Kindern

Sexual abuse of children

Sexual abuse destroys trust and hurts children deeply. Here you can read how to recognize warning signs and how affected children can be protected and supported.

Eine auf ein Haus gerichtete Kamera zur Beobachtung

Stalking

Constantly being followed, called or watched is not attention, but stalking. This page explains how you can protect yourself and what legal steps you can take.

Eine Seniorin schaut durch einen Spalt einer kettengesicherten Tür

Crimes against senior citizens

Older people are targeted as victims of fraud, theft or violence. Read how you can protect yourself or your relatives and get support in an emergency.

Cybercrime

Crimes on the internet

Digital violence can happen anywhere and at any time - through threats, surveillance or the dissemination of private data. Here you can read what you can do about it and where you can get support.

Verkehrsunfälle

Traffic accidents

A traffic accident can not only be a physical but also an emotional burden. This page provides information about your rights, first steps after the accident and offers of help.

Forced marriage

Forced marriage violates personal freedom and is punishable by law. Here you can find out how those affected can protect themselves and where specific help is available.