Recognizing the Signs of Domestic Abuse

 Posted on May 26, 2020 in Domestic Violence

According to data from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), as many as one in three women and one in four men will experience at least some level of domestic abuse in their lifetimes. Of those, one in three women and one in nine men will experience severe abuse. As alarming as these statistics are, victims can lead a normal, healthy, and functional life after a violent relationship. The first step is recognizing that there may be a problem.

Early Signs of Domestic Violence

Contrary to what some people may believe, abusive relationships rarely start out violent. In fact, most abusers are quite skilled at being charming, and while they may come on strong, their actions and behaviors seem loving and genuine. In time, things change and these early signs of domestic violence start to emerge, such as:

• The abuser wrongfully accusing the victim of cheating or flirting;
• The abuser losing their temper and throwing or breaking things;
• The abuser attempting to impose stereotypical gender roles;
• The abuser accusing the victim of changing and blaming their actions on this;
• The abuser being unreasonably jealous of friends, co-workers, and other family members;
• The abuser attempting to isolate the victim from their social circle;
• The abuser telling the victim that everyone else is bad for them;
• The abuser making excuses after losing their temper;
• The abuser referring to their cruelty as a “joking;”
• The abuser pressuring the victim into sexual activities;
• The abuser attempting to control money, transportation, or internet and cell phone usage; or
• The abuser going through the victim’s phone or personal belongings, looking for “evidence.”

Signs the Abuse is Progressing

Once the abuser has a foothold, the violence may escalate. Rather than simply yell or throw things, they may pinch, bite, shove, or slap the victim. Once the physical aspects start, the cycle becomes more vicious, often to the point that victims will do anything to avoid setting off their abuser.

Unfortunately, nothing you do (or fail to do) can change the other person’s behavior. However, you can protect yourself by developing a safety plan and potentially an exit strategy. Since abusers sometimes try to retaliate when a victim finally stands up for themselves, it is highly recommended that you seek legal help before attempting to leave.

Our Seasoned Wheaton Family Law Attorneys Can Help You Free from Domestic Violence

The state of Illinois offers an array of protections to victims of domestic violence. Our skilled DuPage County domestic violence lawyers can help you access these legal safety options. Schedule a confidential consultation to get started. Call 630-657-5052 today.

Sources:

http://stoprelationshipabuse.org/educated/warning-signs-of-abuse/