Recognizing the Signs of Abuse in a Relationship

It can be difficult, for those who are in the middle of a dangerous relationship, to see the warning signs of abuse. This is especially true in cases where a person isn’t necessarily exhibiting physically violent behavior, but is engaging in other destructive forms of abuse. While every relationship is different, there are a few common signs that are indicative of an abusive marriage.

Physical Signs of Abuse 

The signs of domestic violence vary depending on the type of abuse in question. Not all types of abuse, for instance, leave visible bruises and scars. Physical abuse, however, will often leave victims suffering from bruises on the limbs or neck, unexplained sprains and broken bones, and even scarring. Often, victims of physical abuse cannot explain where their injuries came from, or their explanations may change over time or reveal other inconsistencies. Many attempt to cover up such injuries with heavy makeup or long sleeves, or may cancel plans and isolate themselves until their injuries heal.

Emotional Signs of Abuse 

Domestic violence doesn’t always take the form of physical abuse. Instead, some victims suffer emotionally, experiencing:

• Higher levels of anxiety, irritability, or anger;
• Unexplained mood swings;
• Low self-esteem;
• Unexplained levels of fear, sometimes manifesting as flinching at sudden sounds or movements;
• Fatigue;
• Increased crying; and
• Suicidal ideation.

These symptoms aren’t always indicative of abuse. They could, for instance, be the result of a recent loss or trauma, such as a death in the family. However, when combined with other signs, they could be evidence that a person is suffering from emotional abuse in his or her marriage.

Behavioral Signs of Abuse 

Abuse within a marriage often results in changes to a person’s behavior, including:

• Changes in sleep habits, such as insomnia or oversleeping;
• Changes in appetite;
• Excessive alcohol consumption;
• Drug use;
• Isolation from loved ones;
• Withdrawing from society; and
• Exhibiting a lack of interest in activities and hobbies that he or she previously enjoyed.

These kinds of changes are often accompanied by other signs of abuse. A person in an abusive relationship may, for instance, exhibit both behavioral and emotional signs of abuse, while in others, physical signs may be the only evidence of abuse. Whatever the case, such behavior is not only wrong, but illegal. Fortunately, there are steps that victims can take, such as obtaining a restraining order to help keep themselves safe.

Contact an Experienced Domestic Violence Attorney in Florida 

If you recognize signs of abuse in your own relationship or in the marriage of a loved one, remember that you are not alone. There are a number of legal protections in Florida from which you could benefit, so if you are considering divorce to protect yourself or your children from an abusive spouse and have already reached out to the proper law enforcement authorities, don’t hesitate to contact the compassionate Largo domestic violence lawyers at Cairns Law for help. Call us at 727-683-1472 or send us an online message to get started on your case today.

Sources:

 leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0741/Sections/0741.28.html

psychcentral.com/health/coercive-control