Domestic violence warning signs
Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone anywhere. And while it’s impossible to know for sure what goes on behind closed doors, there are some revealing signs and symptoms. Acknowledging and reporting them is the first step to ending the violence, so don’t hesitate. If you notice the following warning signs of domestic abuse, contact a trusted resource immediately.
Domestic Violence Project, Inc. (DVPI)
DVPI provides emergency shelter and support services to victims of domestic violence.
Hotline: 330-453-SAFE (7233)
Hotline: 330-453-SAFE (7233)
Physical signs
The following visible indicators could be the result of domestic violence:
- Bruises or injuries as a result of choking, punching or being thrown into a solid object
- Long sleeves or clothing that covers the neck
- Heavy makeup to cover discoloration
- Tired due to sleep deprivation
References
Behavioral signs
If someone has the following behaviors, they might be experiencing an abusive relationship:
- Less time spent with family, friends or co-workers
- No interest in establishing new relationships
- Feels anxious, depressed or in constant fear
- Endures jealousy and belittling language from their partner
- Limited access to their money, car and phone
- Makes excuses about their partner’s behaviors
- Always has to seek permission
- No control over the clothes they wear or the people they spend time with
- Constant check-ins to update their partner about what they’re doing
References
Characteristics of an abusive partner
These are some of the warning signs of an abusive partner:
- Uses intimidation tactics, such as driving recklessly, breaking objects or slamming walls
- Makes cheating accusations
- Shows excessive jealousy and anger, even over small things
- Belittles or embarrasses their partner in front of others
- Forces their partner to have sexual relations without expressed consent
- Resorts to physical acts of hitting, slapping, punching, grabbing and throwing
- Threatens to kill their partner or themselves
- Threatens to take away, harm or kill their children
- Drinks excessively or abuses drugs
- Blames others when they’re angry, upset or depressed
- Makes decisions without their partner’s input