ADHD, Autism, Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, and Tourette’s syndrome are all examples of neurodiversity. People with learning disabilities and or autism are more likely to suffer from domestic violence and abuse than other people and are less likely to report it when they do.

There are many forms of physical, emotional and sexual abuse and it can be really hard to spot when this is creating a problem in a relationship. Not being able to understand social ‘rules’ for relationships and less ability to recognise good and bad behaviour can lead to bad relationships. Often it is relying on others to help them with everyday tasks, which can make it harder for someone with a learning disability to leave an abusive relationship.

Coercive control is common in people who are neurodivergent. This is an ‘act or a pattern of acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim’. You can find out more on our types of abuse page.

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