EMOTIONAL ABUSE

You’re Just Being Sensitive.

“Emotional abuse involves attempts to frighten, control, or isolate you. This type of abuse doesn’t involve physical violence, though it might involve threats of violence directed toward you or your loved ones. It’s characterized by a person’s words, actions, and the consistency of these behaviors. Abuse may start gradually, but it happens again and again.

People of any age or gender can abuse or experience abuse. And abuse doesn’t just happen in the context of romantic relationships. The person abusing you could be your spouse or romantic partner — but they might also be your business partner, parent, or caretaker.

Regardless, you don’t deserve the emotional abuse, and it’s definitely not your fault.”

Emotional Abuse Signs

PHYSICAL ABUSE

I Didn’t Hit You That Hard.

“Physical abuse is the use of physical force against someone, in a way that injures or endangers that person. Domestic abuse rarely starts at physical assault; perpetrators will use physical abuse when they feel they are being challenged.

Physical abuse is intentional bodily injury. Some examples include slapping, pinching, choking, kicking, shoving, or inappropriately using drugs or physical restraints.

You are not to blame for physical abuse.”

Physical Abuse Signs

VERBAL ABUSE

No Wonder Everyone Says You’re A Bitch.

“Abuse comes in many forms, not all of which are physical. When someone repeatedly uses words to demean, frighten, or control someone, it’s considered verbal abuse.

You’re likely to hear about verbal abuse in the context of a romantic relationship or a parent-child relationship. But it can also occur in other family relationships, socially, or on the job.

Verbal and emotional abuse takes a toll. It can sometimes escalate into physical abuse, too. 

If you’re being verbally abused, know that it’s not your fault.”

Verbal Abuse Signs

FINANCIAL ABUSE

You’d Sign This Check If You Really Loved Me.

“In addition to hurting victims emotionally, verbally, and physically, perpetrators may also hurt them financially.

Financial abuse involves controlling a victim's ability to acquire, use, and maintain financial resources. Those who are victimized financially may be prevented from working.

They also may have their own money restricted or stolen by the abuser. And rarely do they have complete access to money and other resources. When they do have money, they often have to account for every penny they spend.

As always, financial abuse is never your fault. Seek help resolving financial issues as soon as you are ready.”

Financial Abuse Signs

SEXUAL ABUSE

You Were Practically Asking For It.

“Sexual abuse is where an individual is forced, pressured or tricked into taking part in sexual activity with another person. The person may have expressed that they didn’t want to be involved, may not be able to give consent or may not have the capacity to understand what is happening. 

Sexual abuse includes rape, indecent exposure, inappropriate looking or touching, sexual harassment, teasing or innuendo, sexual photography or subjection to pornography or witnessing sexual acts that the adult has not consented to or was pressured into consenting to. Sexual abuse can occur in relationships – for example, if somebody rapes their partner or regulates their access to birth control.

Sexual abuse is traumatizing, and you are never to blame or at fault for the abuse. ”

Sexual Abuse Signs
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