Domestic violence is a pattern of violent and/or coercive behaviors whereby one attempts to control the thoughts, beliefs or behaviors of an intimate partner or to punish the partner for resisting one's control. This control over another person is gained through fear and intimidation. Anyone can become a victim of domestic violence. Many times, victims don't realize that they are in an abusive relationship as they don't see the behavior as controlling. Instead, victims believe their partner has an anger issue, a jealous issue, an insecurity, or they believe it is all their fault.
Warning Signs of an Abusive Relationship
Detailed Safety Plans are available below:
- Jealous and possessive.
- Pushes for a serious relationship quickly.
- Is suspicious about everyone you speak to.
- Hides controlling behavior behind concern for your safety.
- Discourages or controls what you do and who you see.
- Expects you to always be available or with them.
- Sudden mood swings.
- You are afraid of expressing an opinion or decision that will upset them.
- Puts down everyone you know.
- Believes all their problems are someone else’s fault.
- Sees everything as a personal attack and is easily insulted.
- Blows things out of proportion.
- Forces you to do things sexually that you don’t want to.
- Puts you down or makes you feel stupid in front of friends.
- Believes males and females have very specific roles.
- Was abusive to a previous partner.
- Breaks or strikes objects near you.
Detailed Safety Plans are available below:
| SAFETY PLAN |
If you are in an abusive relationship and need help, call The Spring of Tampa Bay at 813-247-7233 (SAFE).
www.thespring.org
www.thespring.org