Signs of Domestic Abuse

Many people wonder about the signs of domestic abuse. While one sign might be a mere coincidence, noticing several of these signs should raise concerns. It is everyone's responsibility to get involved if you suspect domestic abuse, particularly when children are involved. Talk with Social Services or a government employee (such as a teacher or police officer) if you recognize several of the signs.

Extreme Privacy

People living with domestic abuse tend to be very private about their home life, refusing to let anyone visit their house or talk about their home life.

Fear

Those suffering from domestic abuse live in fear. They might become very anxious if they are running late, or they might overreact to anything that could inconvenience the abuser.

Frequent injuries

If a person seems to suffer from frequent injuries or frequently has bruises, that person might be a victim of domestic abuse.

Hypervigilence

Domestic-abuse victims become hypervigilent, always scanning the environment looking for danger. They tend to startle easily, such as "jumping" at an unexpected sound.

Relationship Problems

Those growing up in abusive households do not understand normal boundaries. They frequently have trouble making and sustaining friendships. They might be too clingy or too reserved for a friendship to work.

Resources

• Domesticviolence.org
• Domestic Violence Help Guide