New law in England and Wales expands definition of controlling behavior in relationships

Recent legal changes in England and Wales have expanded the definition of controlling and coercive behavior in relationships. The law now recognizes psychological and emotional abuse alongside physical violence, addressing manipulation tactics that create dependency or fear. The Serious Crime Act 2015 established the offense of controlling behavior, while the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 broadened the definition of "personally connected" individuals. This means that abusive actions can occur between partners, ex-partners, or family members, regardless of living arrangements. Eighteen specific acts are now illegal, including physical violence, financial abuse, and controlling communication. Victims may not always recognize these behaviors as abuse, prompting police to investigate patterns of control when responding to calls for help.