by Andrea-Lee Peters

Created on: September 23, 2009   Last Updated: September 25, 2009

It is important to understand that there are several different types of abuse in a relationship. Anything that belittles an individual in a relationship and originates from the other partner is a form of this, whether it be physical, sexual, or emotional. Sometimes if you have been in the relationship for a while it is difficult to realise what is normal and abnormal, what is abuse and what isn't.

Emotional abuse.

- This can be when your partner or spouse calls you names and belittles you in any way. They may make you feel bad about the clothes you wear, the way you act, what you eat, the friends you have, or many more small things that over time wear you down.

- They may get jealous or angry and accuse you of cheating or spending too much time with another instead of you. This can include your friends or family.

- They may threaten to hurt themselves in order to make you feel bad or sorry for them. This may especially take place if you try to leave the situation and they want you to stay.

Physical Abuse.

- This involves any physical harm to yourself. This can be hitting, punching, slapping, kicking, or any other physical contact that causes you pain. They may hit with a hand or use a weapon.

Sexual Abuse.

- This is any form of sexual contact that you do not consent to.

- If you are manipulated or coerced into having sex when you really don't want to. For example, made to feel guilty in anyway for saying "no," this is also sexual abuse.

Feeling you may experience if you are in an unhealthy relationship.

- Upset, controlled, trapped, feeling bad about yourself, humiliated, nervous or tense, scared, uncomfortable, angry, guilty, feelings of not being good enough, confused or pressured.

Symptoms of abuse.

- Feeling alone and afraid, having less confidence in yourself, not doing and engaging in things you used to enjoy doing, losing yourself, feelings you can't trust others, not communicating with friends or family, trying to please them and do what they want, anxiety or depression, abusing alcohol or drugs, headaches, not sleeping properly or insomnia.

In contrast a good relationship has elements of compromise, being able to feel safe, your partner respecting your feelings, being able to say no and respecting you, your friends, your family and your choices.

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