Name two forms of coercive control used by abusers.

• A. Physical harm and threats
• B. Isolation and economic control
• C. Social withdrawal and humor
• D. Trust-building and communication

Answer: (B)

Coercive control relies on ongoing patterns that limit a survivor’s autonomy and freedom. Isolation cuts the person off from family, friends, and support networks, making it harder to seek help or leave the relationship. Economic control keeps resources out of reach—money, work opportunities, transportation, and decision-making about finances are restricted—creating dependence and a pathway to continued dominance. Together, these non-physical tactics establish a framework that constrains daily life and future choices without needing to resort to immediate violence.

Other options describe either violence or non-controlling behaviors. Physical harm and threats are violent tactics that may accompany coercive control, but they aren’t the non-physical pattern highlighted here. Social withdrawal and humor don’t map onto a clear, controlling pattern in the same way isolation and economic control do, and trust-building and communication are typically protective rather than controlling.