Types of Abuse: Unhealthy relationship indicators
To learn more about the types of abuse, refer to the diagram below. Remember that areas of abuse can overlap. For instance, a partner may verbally harass you using electronics. Or a significant other can emotionally pressure you to do something you’re uncomfortable with sexually. In any relationship, both males and females can be abusive. No one EVER deserves abuse.
Types of Abuse
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Verbally abusive partners can use anger, put-downs, create self-doubt or feelings of being crazy, embarrass you, and threaten harm to you or themselves. Emotional abuse undermines your confidence and sense of self-worth. The longer you are exposed to degrading words and manipulation, the harder it becomes to see through the lies and control. Verbal abuse is not your fault. No matter how hard you try, you cannot prevent it. Frequently, this abuse becomes a vicious, repeated cycle of an incident, making up, followed by a period of getting along. For your well-being, it is crucial to identify signs of verbal and emotional abuse.
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Even in a relationship, you have the right to never be touched in an unwanted manner. Physical abuse can be subtle: a push, grab, kick, blocking you from leaving, or an intimidating invasion of your space. It may not even leave a mark. More aggressive abuse can be a hit, punch, or throwing objects. Striking a wall, a pet, or other physical aggression can be abuse . Though shocking to experience, and even if it has happened only once, there is never any justification for physical abuse. Because you could be in serious danger, talk with someone and develop a safety plan to protect yourself if you have any questions about physical abuse.
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No one should ever be forced or pressured to do something sexually that makes them uncomfortable, even in a serious relationship. There is never any excuse to be subjected to unwanted sexual comments, gestures, or advances. Gentle, repeated pressure to do something you don’t want is wrong, even if you have done it before. If your partner will not respect your sexual boundaries, they are not respecting you. Instead, they are acting selfishly and possibly crossing the line into abuse. It is critical to confide in a trusted adult if you have concerns in the area of sexual abuse.
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Using digital means to
track, monitor, or control you is abuse. Beware feeling you must regularly “check in” and promptly respond to a partner’s messages. You shouldn’t feel restricted about what you can post and communicate on your social networks for fear of your partner’s reaction, disapproval, or finding out. No one should pressure you for explicit pictures, threaten to share private communication, or make inappropriate posts referring to you on their own networks.
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When dating, no one should monitor or control your income, spending habits, take your money, or somehow prevent or discourage you from earning a living.
