Domestic violence is far too common, affecting 1 in 4 women.
Every situation is unique, and all relationships come with challenges. However, there are common patterns and signs of abusive relationships that you need to be aware of. If you are experiencing any of these signs in your relationship, get help right away.
Secrecy is the friend of domestic violence. Stand together with your friends and family against domestic violence. If you notice these signs in a friend or family members relationship, encourage them to get help.
Some of the signs of an abusive relationship include (but are not limited to):
- Controlling Behavior : An abuser may control all the finances, what their partner wears, where they go, and who they spend time with.
- Unrealistic Expectations: An abuser may expect their partner to take care of all of their needs physically and emotionally. They might act out in anger if those needs are not met to their expectations.
- Isolation: This goes hand in hand with jealousy. An abuser may try to control who their partner communicates and spends time with, often trying to prohibit them from spending time with friends and family. They may accuse their partner of flirting or cheating if they are talking to another man.
- Blame: An abuser will blame their partner and others for their problems.
- Verbal Abuse: An abuser will use shame, harassment, or foul language to put down or coerce their victim.
- Using Force During Arguments: An abuser may hit, beat, push, shove or restrain to intimidate their victim during a fight. They may also yell at and threaten them.
- Forced Sex: An abuser may force their partner to have sex, by verbally guilting or physically forcing. They may not listen when their partner says no.
- Violent, Unpredictable Behavior: An abuser may show violent behavior such as breaking or smashing things, slamming doors, or physically beating or harming their victim.
No one should be the victim of domestic violence. Please call a domestic violence hotline or reach out to us at 215.855.2424 to get help.
