Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center
Information >Dating/Domestic Violence >Are You in an Abusive Relationship?
Abuse is sometimes difficult to detect because it is manipulative and usually begins very subtly. Often abusive tactics are disguised as acts of love and care. The following are some questions to ask yourself about whether you are in an abusive relationship.
Are you…
- Frightened, at times, by your partner’s behavior?
- Afraid to disagree with your partner?
- Constantly apologizing for your partner’s behavior (especially when he/she has treated you badly)?
- Verbally degraded by your partner?
- Not able to see your friends or family because of your partner’s jealousy?
- Afraid to break up with your partner because he/she has threatened to hurt you, someone else, or him/herself?
Do you…
- Feel like you must justify everything you do to avoid your partner’s anger?
- Avoid family or social situations because you are afraid of how your partner will act?
Have you…
- Been hit, kicked, shoved, thrown down, choked, or grabbed?
- Had things thrown at you?
- Forced to have sex or engage in any sexual acts against your will?
If you have answered "yes" to any of these questions, you may be in an abusive relationship. Perhaps you are now out of a violent relationship, but are still dealing with the pain. In either situation, there are places you can go for help and support. Please contact us, or refer to our Resources section..
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