Domestic abuse can quickly escalate, leading to serious, irreversible harm and even death. Knowing some of the early signs of domestic violence can help you protect yourself and others from this extremely dangerous situation.
If you suspect you are experiencing domestic violence, call the domestic violence hotline at 800-799-7233 to determine how to get to safety. Once you are safe, reach out to a family law attorney to discuss your legal options.
1. Spending Less Time With Family and Friends
One of the early warning signs of domestic abuse is spending less time with loved ones. An abusive partner might make you feel guilty for wanting to spend time without them. Seeing friends or relatives might spark arguments at home, leading you to avoid these outings altogether.
Healthy relationships involve spending time with other people. If you don’t feel comfortable doing so, this might be a red flag that your partner is abusive or controlling.
2. Facing Criticism and Control From Your Spouse
An abusive partner might consistently criticize or look down upon you. You may feel ashamed to share your achievements with them because you fear facing criticism. Or you may feel like you can never do anything right, impacting your sense of self-worth.
Domestic abuse might also include feeling controlled by your spouse. They might make negative comments about your decisions, “guilt-trip” you into changing your mind, or physically control your activities. They might control your money, social life, appearance, or other personal choices.
3. Experiencing Physical Abuse or Violence
These early indicators of abuse can quickly escalate into physical abuse or violence, such as:
- Pushing you
- Kicking you
- Biting you
- Pulling your hair
- Punching or slapping you
Physical violence can also involve more indirect tactics, such as abandoning you in a place you don’t know, locking you out or in, or preventing you from eating, sleeping, or seeking medical care.
If you are concerned that a loved one is experiencing physical abuse, you might look for signs like:
- Bruises on the arms
- Red or purple marks on the neck
- Agitation or anxiety
- Seeming fearful
- Sleeping too much or too little
4. Feeling Like You Have To Walk on Eggshells Around a Partner
You should never have to feel afraid of a partner. If you begin feeling like you need to “walk on eggshells” to avoid setting your partner off, this may be an early sign of domestic violence. You might:
- Constantly apologize to de-escalate situations
- Overthink simple interactions
- Self-censor your thoughts
- Avoid certain topics out of fear of a negative reaction
- Hide your own needs to avoid an angry outburst
Explore Your Legal Options for Protecting Yourself
You don’t have to live with an abusive partner. If these signs of domestic violence ring true for you or a loved one, our family law attorneys can help you explore your legal options. You may pursue a domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) or other forms of protection.
Whether you need help understanding domestic abuse or are seeking legal advice, call Viola Law Firm P.C. at 650-343-6400.
