On a typical day, there are over 20,000 phone calls made to domestic violence helplines across America. But domestic violence isn’t the only form that an abusive relationship can take.
Almost 50% of both men and women have been subjected to emotional abuse from an intimate partner at some point in their lifetime. If you’re concerned that you or someone you know might be in an abusive relationship then this short guide is for you.
Let’s take a look at 8 signs of an abusive relationship and what you should do about it.
- Lack of Self Esteem
Our loved ones should make us feel good about ourselves. Even when offering constructive criticism it should be done lovingly and positively.
A sudden lowering of self-esteem could be a warning sign of an emotionally abusive relationship.
- A Lack of Trust
Trust is a fundamental aspect of any relationship. A lack of trust -if unprecedented- should often be seen as an act of transference from a partner.
A lack of trust is a sign of insecurity. Insecure people are more likely to sabotage their happiness and this includes relationships.
- Isolation
Abusive partners are likely to attempt to isolate their better-halves from socializing with other friends.
This occurs because either the abusive partner is insecure and jealous, or that they are worried that their partner will confide in someone.
- Seeking Permission
For the bigger things in life, it’s good to make sure that you’re partner is on the same page. But if you need to request approval for almost everything you do, then there is a problem.
If you or someone you know constantly needs to run everything by their partner first, then it could be a sign that they’re in an abusive relationship.
- Passing the Blame
Abusive partners are likely to pass the blame on to anything they can. This could be their partner or other external factors such as:
- Alcohol or other drugs
- Mental health
- Stress
If there are problems in a relationship and your partner isn’t willing to accept responsibility then it is a warning sign that things will continue.
- Threats
Any form of threat is a form of abuse. If potential actions are threatened with consequences such as blackmail or physical harm, then you have reason to worry.
Another common threat in an abusive relationship is when the abusive partner threatens to hurt themselves. This is often used to trap the other partner.
- Gaslighting
Gaslighting is when someone makes you question your judgment and reality. This type of psychological manipulation is very common in abusive relationships.
If your partner frequently tells you that you’re being crazy, or overacting, you might be the victim of gaslighting.
- Volatility
If a relationship seems to be going from one extreme to the other then it’s unlikely to be a healthy one. That doesn’t mean that it can’t be saved though.
If your relationship seems volatile then why not contact the Relationship Suite to discuss couples therapy.
Look Out For These Signs of an Abusive Relationship
The signs of an abusive relationship can sometimes be difficult to spot. It doesn’t matter if you’re in the relationship yourself, or if you’re concerned about someone close to you.
Always stay vigilant and remember that if you’re not at your best when in the company of your chosen intimate partner, then it could be a sign that there is something wrong.
For more relationship and lifestyle advice be sure to take a look at the rest of our blog.
