Boston, Massachusetts has recently recorded alarming rates of homicides, suicides, and opioid-related deaths. People need to be able to recognize the signs of emotional abuse so they can seek help before it’s too late. To help others, one must also take the time to identify and cope with these signs. There are many things in addition to physical violence that is abuse markers:
Humiliation
This can be insults, put-downs, name-calling, and mockery. It can also happen in public. Effectively, it is an act that debases or embarrasses a person and is a form of emotional abuse.
Isolation
This isn’t only limited to physical isolation but also means having few friends or confidantes and not allowing the victim to have contact with family. It’s about controlling whom the victim sees and talks to and what they do in their spare time.
Lack of Boundaries
This can be seen on a personal or even professional level. For example, if the abuser is an intimate partner and the victim feels that this person has no limits, it is always right and frequently demeans them. The same can also affect a professional relationship if the victim doesn’t feel they have any say in work issues.
Threats
If your abuser makes it clear that they consider you inferior, this isn’t just a threat in theory. It can and will be acted upon.
Over-possessiveness
The abuser sees and treats an intimate partner as property instead of an independent person with rights and value. As a result, they start to control every aspect of their life, including finances, sex life, and every other aspect.
Anger
This is extreme anger, and it can be provoked by almost anything. This can result in emotional abuse, such as criticizing, name-calling, or physical abuse. You may even see threats of violence if you don’t comply with the abuser’s wishes. This type of behavior is most common in relationships with domestic violence.
Getting help
It’s important to recognize the signs of emotional abuse, so you can seek help before things escalate. It starts with you. You are not alone, and help is available.