How to Recognize Domestic Violence, In Your Situation and In Others

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According to the Joyful Heart Foundation - an advocacy organization for sufferers and survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault and child abuse - over 32 million Americans, both men and women, are affected by domestic violence every year. Although women are more often victims of abuse - only 1 in 3 women report their attackers, however - men are also victims of domestic violence.

It is a somewhat clich? phrase, but one that rings true nonetheless. Recognizing abuse is your first step to stopping it, especially recognizing abuse in your own relationship. It is also helpful, especially in the workplace, to be able to recognize the outward signs of abuse being experienced by others.

How to recognize abuse in your relationship

If you are wondering if you particular relationship is one of abuse, there are several inner and outer signs to look for. Ask yourselves these questions.

Do you feel fearful of your partner, ever?

Do you walk on eggshells, avoiding certain topics or events that you know will cause your partner to become angry or unhappy?

Do you constantly feel unappreciated, as if you cannot succeed at anything you attempt? And if so, do you believe you deserve to feel this way?

Do you feel numb, helpless or at a loss to make changes?

About your partner:

Does your partner humiliate you? Or physically hit you?

Does your partner ignore or constantly underestimate you?

Does your partner act impulsively, controlling or jealous?

Does your partner check in incessantly, or does your partner limit your access to money, cars or forms of communication?

There are several tactics employed by abusers to maintain control in an abusive situation.

Isolation: not allowing you to associate with friends or family; restricting your social activity outside of the home; monitoring your phone conversations.

Threats and humiliation: if your partner embarrasses you, either privately or publicly; does your partner threaten your personal safety and security.

Denial: does your partner make excuses for his or her behavior; does your partner blame his or her outbursts on a bad day, a poor childhood, etc?

It is difficult to recognize domestic violence in others, but there some common signs, that if noticed, would suggest someone is a victim of abuse.

Here are some common, outward signs of abuse in others.

Frequent injuries, soreness or physical signs of pain.

Serious secrecy about his or her relationship or personal life.

Does he or she take frequent sick days or have to leave work early often?

"Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women," notes The Joyful Heart Foundation. But it is important to remember that anyone can become a victim of domestic abuse.

If you believe you are a victim of domestic violence, the Mayo Clinic recommends that you have a safety plan and that you protect your phone and email communications.

A safety plan includes - if possible - a pre-packed bag with extra clothes and money, plus extra keys. Knowing where the closest shelters are, or having someone lined up who is willing to harbor you if the situation requires it. And be cautious when using phone and email should your partner be monitoring these forms of communication.

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Source: http://www.submityourarticle.com/articles/Drew-Barton-19989/relationships-201091.php

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