The Warning Signs of Domestic Violence

Physical or sexual violence may occur without warning. Sometimes, however, there may be signs or "red-flags" that serve as warnings that abuse may occur. The following are examples of a person's behavior or personality that might warn that a person may abuse.

• Does your partner tease you in a hurtful way in private or in public?

• Does your partner call you names such as "stupid" or "bitch"?

• Does your partner act jealous of your friends, family, or co-workers?

• Does your partner make fun of you, your friends, or your activities?

• Does your partner get angry about the clothes you wear or how you style your hair?

• Does your partner check-up on you by calling, driving by, or getting someone else to?

• Has your partner gone places with you or sent someone just to "keep an eye on you"?

• Does your partner insist on knowing who you talk with on the phone?

• Does your partner blame you for his problems or his bad mood?

• Does your partner get angry so easily that you feel like you are "walking on eggshells"?

• Does your partner hit walls, drive dangerously, or do other things to scare you?

• Does your partner often drink or use drugs?

• Does your partner insist that you drink or use drugs with him?

• Have you lost friends or no longer see some of your family because of your partner?

• Does your partner accuse you of being interested in someone else?

• Does your partner take your personal belongings and keep them in order to get you to do something you do not want to do?

• Does your partner dare you to do things you would not normally do?

• Does your partner challenge you to prove your love or loyalty?

• Does your partner get drunk or high in order to punish you?

• Does your partner force you to have sex when you do not want to?

• Does your partner force you to have sex in ways that you do not want to?

• Does your partner threaten to kill you or himself if you leave?

Is your partner like "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde", acting one way in front of other people and another way when you are alone?

If you answered yes to one or more of the questions, you may be in an abusive relationship or be at risk for it. It is recommended that you speak with a domestic violence counselor at the Haven of Lake & Sumter Counties, Inc.

You can reach us at (352) 753-5800, about your "yes" answers.