by Sharon A. Walsh

Created on: May 29, 2009   Last Updated: July 06, 2009

What is abuse? Abuse is mistreatment that is directed at one by another. Abuse occurs because one seeks power and control over another. Those who seek power and control, will use abusive behaviors to maintain their power over others. There are many different forms of abuse, such as, emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse and economic abuse, etc. Abuse is typically found in relationships where there is an imbalance of power.

Abuse, also known as Domestic Violence, is a serious problem in relationships. Domestic Violence abuse has taken away the lives of many women. Because Domestic Violence abuse has the potential to become fatal, it's important for women to be able to recognize all forms of abuse. Some forms of abuse are recognizable to many, such as, physical abuse and name calling which is an obvious form of emotional abuse. There are other emotionally abusive behaviors, however, that are less obvious, which can cause extreme damage to one's state of mind. This form of emotional abuse is common but remains unrecognizable to many who encounter it.

Domestic Violence is a complex problem and involves many controlling behaviors. Some abusive behaviors may be recognizable to you and there are some, that are not so obvious, that can cause extreme confusion. Below is a list of abusive behaviors that are listed in category form that will help you recognize the signs of abuse should you encounter them in your relationship.

Signs of physical abuse

shoving

pushing

blocking

biting

kicking

choking

punching

holding you down against your will

throwing objects

prevents you from leaving

invades your personal space

acts as if he is going to hit you

intimidation

gets up in your face

Obvious Signs of emotional abuse

derogatory name-calling

treats you as a subordinate

criticizes you

disrespects you

lacks remorse

offends you

tells you what to wear

embarrasses you in front of others

treats others better than you

provokes jealousy by comparing you to others

flirts with others while in your presence

mocking you or others

gives you the silent treatment

verbally threatens to harm you, your pets or family members

limits your outside activities,

times your outside activities

screens your phone calls

make plans then breaks them, etc

Less obvious forms of emotional abuse

Does your mate say something, then claims he never said it

tells you that you are crazy

switches the topic of conversation

acts as if you do not exist

accuses

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