What Is Abuse?

I feel the need to add this for a certain friend, if you read this you'll know who you are. Abuse doesn't always have to be physical. An abusive partner can just be one that is controlling and manipulative. One that rules you, and everything you do or do not do. One you have to report to or ask permission to go out with a friend, or pay the consequences of a big fight or harsh words. This type of abuser also controls your self esteem. When you don't do as your told, often you are punished by his/her cruel words, attacks on your person, ideas, needs, and shortcomings. They often attack where they know it will hurt most or be most affective. They know your weaknesses, and they break them down even more rather than trying to build you up. This kind of abuser only tears you down, and they will keep you down, as long as you let em! You live YOUR life the way HE wants you to, not the way you want to! That my friend IS abuse!

Abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, economic, or destructive acts intended to hurt, frighten, or control the behavior of another person including:

Hitting, slapping, punching, biting, shoving, cutting, choking, burning, or spitting.

Throwing objects.

Restraining against one's will.

Insulting, humiliating, and name calling.

Threatening, either verbally or with a weapon.

Monitoring phone calls, denying use of car.

Restricting freedom

Denying opportunities to see family and friends.

Destroying pets, property, or other personally meaningful items.

Forcing any sexual acts or activities that a participant does not want.

Withholding affection as punishment.

Manipulating with lies, contradictions, or promises.

Forbidding access to money or household fiances.

Monitoring time at work, traveling to and from work, the store, time

spent in the bathroom.

 

 

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