Though not always openly discussed, domestic violence permeates every sphere of modern society. Many people in apparently loving relationships suffer a silent battle with their spouses, with some falling victim to physical, verbal, or sexual abuse. Being aware of the warning signs of domestic violence can save a victim from continued abuse. The following are some warning signs of domestic abuse:
Physical Signs
The most obvious signs of domestic abuse are physical. A victim of domestic abuse may have black eyes, cuts, bruises, busted lips, or sprains that they cannot explain. A common behavior among victims of domestic violence is to cover up the physical signs when they are out in public. Wearing long-sleeve clothing or scarves in hot weather may indicate someone is trying to cover their physical injuries. Some victims wear heavier makeup or mask black eyes with sunglasses.
Emotional Signs
Prolonged abuse within a relationship eventually leads to emotional consequences. A victim of domestic violence may feel helpless or hopeless due to the unchanging nature of their relationship. They can be psychologically and emotionally conditioned to think they may never come out of their situation. Some victims cannot relax and are consistently alert even when doing leisure activities. Victims of domestic abuse may also develop emotional signs like alcohol or substance abuse, low self-esteem, and even present as being consistently fearful. Some victims can become depressed and even contemplate suicide if their abusers continue harming them.
Behavioral Signs
The behavior of victims also changes with time. They may become more distant and reserved, choosing to isolate themselves from their family and friends. Other telling signs include canceling appointments at the last minute and dropping out of activities they formerly enjoyed. Victims of abuse may also become overly private about their relationships. They may also be late for work or other formal appointments.
Controlling Behavior
Domestic abusers revel in controlling their victims. Therefore, being aware of a person’s independence while in a relationship can help you determine if intervention may be necessary, as a lack of independence can also indicate they are being abused. Some common traits of a person being controlled include asking for permission to socialize or meet other people or having their calls or text messages tracked by their abuser. The victims may also have little to no money, even when they have a job or access to credit cards or lack access to a vehicle, or talk about their partner as jealous or possessive.
Other Signs
Victims of domestic violence can also endure harsh criticism in public and even criticize their families and friends when they are trying to help. They may avoid angering their partners, instead choosing to speak softly and positively all the time.
What to Do
“Getting out of abusive relationships can seem impossible. However, there are many resources victims of abuse can use to get them the help they need,” says attorney Mark Sherman of the Connecticut Domestic Violence Information Center. Contacting organizations like the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) can be one recourse victims take. They can also escape their abusers and report their abuse to law enforcement. Contacting a family law attorney can also be another resource to make legal claims for the abuse you have endured.
The emotional and psychological toll victims of domestic violence endure may not allow them to take the initiative to get the help they need. The people close to a victim should take the initiative to find out the situation and try to get help for their loved ones. Taking note of these signs is an effective approach that can inform you of the abuse your loved one endures.
