Recognising abuse

It is sometimes hard to recognise the abusive behaviour for what it is.

When you’re in an abusive relationship, or being abused by a family member, it is sometimes hard to recognise the abusive behaviour for what it is, especially while you are still caught in the middle of it.

Ask yourself the following questions. The more ‘yes’ answers you give, the more likely it is that you are in an abusive relationship.

Are You?

  • Afraid some or most of the time?
  • Ridiculed, put down, made fun of or belittled?
  • Worried about talking about certain subjects unless they’re in good mood?
  • Making excuses or lying about the situation to other people?
  • Worrying that you’re going crazy?
  • Being made to feel guilty or blamed for their behaviour?
  • Feeling helpless, worthless, depressed or suicidal?

Do They?

  • Check up on you or go through your personal things?
  • Swear or shout at you?
  • Criticise how you look, what you say or what you do?
  • Stalk, harass, follow or threaten you?
  • Stop you from seeing your family and friends?
  • Force you to have sex against your will?
  • Push, hit, kick, bite, strangle or spit at you?

ABOUT THE REFUGE