Dating abuse isn’t an argument that happens once in a while — it is a pattern of coercive behaviors used to establish control over a partner. If you see a sign of abuse in one of your friends’ relationships, it DOES NOT mean it is an abusive relationship — but it could be headed in that direction. Listed below are some things to consider when looking at your own relationship or a friends. You can also take our quiz to see how your relationship measures up.
- Insult, belittle or humiliate others in public
- Tell you how to dress
- Require you to constantly check in
- Keep you from participating in hobbies or other activities
- Coerce you to be with them all the time
- Coerce, force or manipulate you into sexual activity
- Physically harm their partners
- Stop participating in things they used to enjoy
- Worry about making their partners angry
- Withdraw and become isolated
- Have unexplained injuries
- Lose a lot of weight
- Start to do poorly in school
- Are constantly attached to their phone or are worried when they do not have their phone.
Are you or a friend being abused?
Dating abuse can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation. If you think you are being abused or know someone who is, seek help with one of these confidential hotlines, websites and resources.