Is It Abuse?

Abuse is a pattern of behaviors one person uses to gain and maintain power and control over their partner. Many people assume abuse means that physical violence is happening, but that’s not always the case! Abuse comes in many forms—it’s not just physical. Explore the behaviors below to learn a few of the common types of abuse so you can better identify them. Experiencing even one or two of these warning signs in a relationship is a red flag that abuse may be present. Remember, each type of abuse is serious and no one deserves to experience abuse of any kind.

Tells you that you can never do anything right.

Shows extreme jealousy of your friends and time spent away.

Keeps you or discourages you from seeing friends or family members.

Insults, demeans or shames you with put-downs.

Controls every penny spent in the household. Takes your money or refuses to give you money for necessary expenses.

Looks at you or acts in ways that scare you. Controls who you see, where you go, or what you do.

Prevents you from making your own decisions.

Tells you that you are a bad parent or threatens to harm or take away your children.

Prevents you from working or attending school.

Destroys your property or threatens to hurt or kill your pets. Intimidates you with guns, knives or other weapons.

Pressures you to have sex when you don’t want to or do things sexually you’re not comfortable with. Pressures you to use drugs or alcohol.