Signs of Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence is gender, age, race, ethnicity neutral. It can be physical or psychological and it can affect anyone at different junctures of time and space. Though there are still patterns to the abuse. With vigilance, mindfulness, and increased awareness we can identify the pattern.

What is Domestic Violence

Let us first begin to understand what is domestic violence? In simple words, it is unequal power dynamics. If in a relationship one tries to emotionally manipulate, hurt, insult, threaten, or sexually coerce the other, then that comes under domestic violence.

The abuse is not limited to the partner, at times the children, pets, or any other family member tend to be the victim. The common feelings among the victims are lack of self-worth, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and a profound sense of helplessness.

Key Highlights

Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse (children, relatives, pets)
Lack of self-worth, anxiety, depression, helplessness are common feelings among the victims
Jealousy, control, blame, anger, self-sabotaging are common traits of abusers
Ask for help: Don't remain silent

Signs of an Abusive Partner

It is often difficult to spot an abuser. S/he may be vibrant, energetic, friendly, and welcoming in social gatherings, while in private they will be dominating. They would want things according to them. Among heterosexual male abusers the traditional, patriarchal gender roles are most important. They believe women's priority should be their partner and children. That's it, and that's all. That's the role of a woman according to them. They are insecure and prone to jealousy. They will accuse their partners of cheating without any reason, and would always want to know their whereabouts (partner's).

In most cases, abusers try to isolate the victims from outside support. They will reduce or completely cut off victims association with family, friends, work, or any other help. Temper may be one of the traits, the inability to manage the temper and explode on their partners is often seen among the abusers. After an abusive episode, the abuser would apologize and promise to change, while the behavior remains the same.

You're not alone: Ask for help

There are different patterns and intensity of abuse and therefore it becomes difficult for the victim to figure out what's happening. Victims are made to believe "it's their fault" while in reality, they are the one who needs help. If you know someone going through any form of abuse, talk to them. Make them feel heard. Look for ways to help the victim. There's clinical, psychological help available online. Get in touch with us and we will try to locate the best help near you. But for all this to happen, you (the victim needs to talk).