How to Keep a Man from Abusing You

An abusive relationship, whether the abuse is emotional or physical, is not healthy for any woman. Because abusive relationships are often difficult to get out of because she might fear retaliation from her abusive partner, it is important to be able to recognize the signs that a man may be abusive, so you can keep a man from abusing you.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Learn the signs of an abusive man and look for these signs to indicate the possible formation of an abusive relationship. Signs may include:-He is quick to commit, even beginning to plan your future together.-He treats those he is close to disrespectful, especially female family members.-He is possessive and controlling in not only your relationship, but also in his other relationships.-He criticizes a lot, but doesn't take criticism well.-He causes you to feel alienated from those that you were close to before the relationship.-He tends to "punish" you by taking away his love whenever you disappoint him.-He has severe mood swings and tends to overact to disappointment.

2. Let those close to you know about your situation and how you are feeling about it. Letting friends and family know what is going on will reassure you that you have support while you are trying to get out of this relationship.

3. Break the relationship off. If you think that she might snap and become abusive while you are breaking the relationship off then you can do it over the phone or you can have a friend or family member do it. Do not stick around hoping that things will get better.

4. Make the break up a clean one. Once you are broken up it is best to cut off all forms of communication because any communication between the two of you, especially communication that you initiate, can be construed as hope that the two of you will get back together. If you have possessions at his place of dwelling that you need to get back from him, or if he has items that you need to return, have a third party do these exchanges for you. The ideal situation, when dealing with an abusive man, for returning personal belongings is to have your friend or family member exchange items with a friend or family member of his.

5. Contact authorities about your options, a restraining order may be necessary, if he refuses to let the relationship go. If she is refusing to let the relationship go and you are preparing to seek help from the authorities then you should make all attempts to document any harassment. Keep all answering machine tapes, emails and mail that can prove that she is in fact harassing you.

6. Call the Nation Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) If you need more information on how to recognize an abusive relationship or you need help getting out of one.

Tips & Warnings

• Never underestimate the danger of an abusive relationship, it is always better to be on the safe side.

Resources

[flagirl09]

on 8/8/2009 Interesting article... thank you for the information.