Are you in an abusive relationship? Are you unsure if the experiences you’ve had in the relationship are abusive or not? Here are some of the top warning signs of an abusive relationship:
Lovebombing – The relationship starts and moves quickly. The partner is charming, romantic and “too good to be true” in the beginning. The partner often pressures for commitment and pushes for the relationship to progress to serious quickly. They might be extremely complimentary, make declarations of love, give excessive gifts and be overly attentive in the beginning.
Controlling Behavior – One partner completely rules the relationship, making all decisions. This partner often controls who the other talks to, spends time with, where they go, how they dress and how often they interact with family or friends.
Excessive Jealousy – Jealousy is a sign of lack of trust and insecurity. A partner with excessive jealousy will be jealous of time spent with friends, family or even children. They might accuse their partner of flirting or talking to other potential mates.
Blames Others – An abusive partner never takes responsibility for their problems or actions. They instead blame others for their behaviors or reactions.
Hypersensitive – An abusive partner is often overly sensitive, easily insulted and takes everything as a personal attack.
Isolating – Abusive partners might prevent their significant other from going to school or work for fear they’ll meet someone else. They also try to keep their partner isolated from friends and family members who might see their actions and behavior as problematic.
History of Violence – A past history of domestic violence or abuse.
Verbal Abuse – Says cruel or hurtful things, curses at their partner, degrades them and might embarrass or put down the victim in front of others.
Mood Swings – Abusive partners are like Jekyll and Hyde – charming and loving one minute then angry and explosive the next, often for no apparent reason.
Violence or Threats of Violence – Restraining the victim, preventing them from leaving the room, holding them down, shoving them or verbally threatening violence are all acts of violence. This can include throwing or breaking objects, often near the victim to incite fear.
Do any of these signs seem familiar to you? If you think you are in an abusive relationship, strongly consider getting out of the relationship. Help is available 24/7 on The National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. Help is available. Don’t suffer with abuse.
