Healthy vs Abusive Relationships

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Abusive Relationships

What is an Abusive Relationship?


An Abusive Relationship is one that includes:
  • Physical Abuse
  • Emotional Abuse
  • Sexual Abusive

How do I know if I am in an Abusive Relationship?

Ask yourself these questions to see if you might be in an Abusive Relationship:

  • Does my partner harm me physically? (This may include: slapping, pushing, grabbing, shaking, smacking, kicking, and punching.)
  • Does my partner try to control different aspects of my life, such as how I dress, who I hang out with, and what I say? 
  • Does my partner frequently humiliate me, or make me feel like I am unworthy? 
  • Does my partner threaten to hurt me, or themself, if I leave the relationship? 
  • Does my partner twist the truth, or lie, to blame me for their faults? 
  • Is my partner jealous or angry when I want to spend time with my friends?

Abusive Statements

If your partner tries to control or manipulate you, they may use an abusive statement. An abusive statement is one that is designed to put the other at fault or make the other person feel bad. An example of this kind of statement is: "If you loved me, you would . . ."

What if you think your friend might be in an Abusive Relationship?

Look for these signs:

  • Unexplained bruises, broken bones, sprains, or marks.
  • Showing excessive guilt, or shame, for no apparent reason.
  • Secrecy, or withdrawal from friends and family.
  • Avoidance of school or other social events, with no proper reason.

Resources to help someone get out of an Abusive Relationship

There are many different ways to help someone get out of an Abusive Relationship. The best of these options include:

  1. Confide in someone, such as a parent, trusted adult, doctor, or a good friend.
  2. If you, or someone you know, has been physically harmed, seek medical attention, or for emergencies, call 911.
  3. If you are still unsure whether you are in an Abusive Relationship, visit a counselor, or therapist.

Healthy Relationships


How can I tell if I am in a Healthy Relationship?

These qualities are usually present in Healthy Relationships:
  • Mutual Respect
  • Honesty
  • Trust
  • Support
  • Fairness and Equality
  • Separate Identities
  • Good Communication

When should you walk away from a Healthy Relationship?

All relationships have difficulties. Here are some signs that you should leave a Healthy Relationship:
  • A relationship might seem perfect at first, but later on, that can change.
  • If the relationship starts to feel like a burden, rather than a joy, it might be time to consider if the relationship is a healthy match for you.
  • If you start to notice some of the qualities of an Abusive Relationship, you should go see a counselor or therapist.

Resources: