How to Identify Abuse

Abuse comes in many forms, physical, emotional, verbal and sexual. All of these types of abuse cause life long scars and issues. The manner in which these different types of abuse are dealt with makes a big difference in the recovery of the victim. There are signs and symptoms to watch for.

Some of the signs of physical abuse are, of course, the obvious bruising, black eyes, repeated physical injuries. But how do you know if there are no visible signs? It is safe to say, that clothing is a sign. Long sleeves and long pants when the weather is nice should be a red flag. The victim will defend their abuser most times. They will claim that they have been terribly clumsy lately, and have fallen or unintentionally hurt themselves.

Emotional abuse is more difficult to detect. A victim of emotional abuse rarely holds their head up, usually look down and rarely make eye contact. Emotional abuse causes a lack of self esteem and a loss of self. They won't dress up for much, and when they do, they will appear visibly uncomfortable. Because of the lack of self esteem, they will not talk much when they are out. When they are with their spouse, they don't want to cause any issues.

Victims of emotional abuse are usually kept away from friends and family. They are forbidden to talk to anyone that the abuser doesn't approve of. The abuser doesn't trust anyone to get close to the victim, because they are afraid that the abuse will be recognized. Their power is threatened at that time and their need for control becomes heightened. To protect themselves, the abuser isolates the victim.

Many times, victims of emotional abuse are also victims of physical abuse. This is a deadly combination. The abusers are usually very controlling and only allow certain activities for the victim. These activities are most likely for the benefit of the abuser. The life and feelings of the victim are rarely considered. If on occasion, those feelings are considered, they are twisted to be what the abuser wants them to be.