Signs of emotional abuse

Emotional abuse is serious and should receive proper attention and help. If you think your partner might be abusing you emotionally but aren't sure what signs to watch for, read on...

Emotional abuse should never be taken lightly. One of the most common excuses women use is “it doesn't happen often”. This is no excuse at all and should never be tolerated. Use the following information to evaluate your situation.

If he tells you how to do things, what to think, and how you should react, you are being emotionally abused. A major red flag is if he tells you who you may or may not socialise with as well. You have your own mind and should never put yourself in a situation where you are not permitted to use it. You have the right to think and feel the way you do and are not tied to another person's thoughts or ideas.

This too is considered emotional abuse. You should never feel guilty for being your own person, or likewise, feel guilt-tripped into making a certain decision. Don't ever base what you decide on what another person thinks or tells you to think.

He will give you little to no time to think about the conversation. You also won't be given the chance to evaluate his behaviour. He will constantly try to justify it, most likely blaming it all on you.

If he simply does not understand, or even try to understand your point of view, this does not necessarily warrant emotional abuse, but if you are afraid to talk to him or feel it is pointless, this is an important sign. The inability to communicate will only lead to problems.

You should never have to endure this type of behaviour. If you are constantly humiliated by your partner, whether in private or around others, you are being abused. This is a sign of your partner's insecurity, but you are not in any way to blame for this and should not have to take the fall. Remember, the person you are with should build up your self-esteem, not tear it down.

You have every right to express yourself and he apparently has no problem telling you how he feels.

Emotional abuse comes in many forms and can be presented in a myriad of different ways. If you aren't allowed to be yourself or feel threatened in any way, get out of the relationship. You deserve better and should begin making a new life for yourself right away.

Author : Staff Contributor