By: Rashmi Negi

Spousal Abuse is also known as Domestic Violence and is perpetrated by one of the partners in an intimate relationship. It can consist of Physical, Sexual, Emotional, and/or Financial Abuse. Spousal Abuse is harmful as the abuser uses hurtful words or behaviors to control their spouse.

Look Out for These Signs
If you know someone and are unsure if they are the victim of Domestic Violence, here are some signs to help you identify Spousal Abuse.

The Individual:
1. Cannot or refuses to explain any marks, scars, or bruises on their body
2. Avoids family, friends, and acquaintances
3. Is not indulging in their favorite activities
4. Behaves weirdly around their partner(s)
5. Seems like an entirely different person with their partner than without them
6. Tries to ignore talking about their partner or their behavior when others are around them
7. Brushes off any claims against their partner, makes excuses for their ill behavior, and is often fearful of talking about them
(MedlinePlus, 2019).

The Individual’s Partner:
1. Disrespects and makes fun of them before their friends, family, or acquaintances
2. Tries to control the situation and wants their partner to surrender and accept their choices
3. Makes all decisions on behalf of their partner and expects them to be okay with it.
4. Demands their partner be submissive and agree to everything they wish to do
5. Wants to take charge of everything and force their partner into any work they want, including sexual favors
(MedlinePlus, 2019).

In such scenarios, emotional blackmail is a common tactic. An abuser makes their partner feel like a lesser human and not good enough for them. Every time the victim tries to leave or end their relationship, they threaten to either cause harm to themselves or their spouse.

You, your friend, or your family member do not have to face abusive situations alone. Abuse Refuge Org offers a survivors’ group for abuse survivors to come together, share their experiences, and provide and receive support. When you’re ready, contact us to learn more about our services and how ARO can help you start your journey to healing. If you want to help us help abuse survivors, please consider donating to our cause.

Source:
MedlinePlus. “Domestic Violence.” U.S. National Library of Medicine. August 28, 2019. https://medlineplus.gov/domesticviolence.html.