Problems over money, housing and other issues that couples face are bound to arise during a relationship, but what happens when anger boils over and one partner starts to abuse the other? The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that over ten million women and men are abused each year, with violence against females happening more often.
While some signs of physical domestic violence are simple to spot, such as cuts and bruises, others are not as simple to identify. Understanding the symptoms of non-physical abuse can help you or a loved one realize when help and intervention are required.
Emotional abuse
If your partner displays possessive or jealous tendencies that escalate as the relationship progresses, this could point to signs of emotional abuse. Other markers of this type of issue include your partner limiting the time you spend with friends and family, monitoring your social media or phone calls and controlling who you see socially. Your partner may threaten you with physical violence or self-harm if you fail to comply with his or her wishes.
Verbal violence
Name-calling, criticizing your appearance and giving you nicknames based on your weight or other physical features are all signs of verbal abuse. Your partner may also shout or verbally humiliate you in front of others and try to pass it off as humor. However, this behavior will likely escalate if you allow it to continue.
Financial abuse
Family fiscal responsibility is often shared between couples, especially if both individuals are employed. If your partner tries to control how you spend your pay, confiscates it or does not allow you access to your financial records, he or she is likely committing financial abuse.
Non-physical abuse can lead to mental illness and serious health issues triggered by stress. Seeking help may help you escape the vicious cycle that often accompanies this type of behavior.