Abuse in a relationship

A healthy relationship involves respect, trust, and consideration for the other person. 

An abusive relationship does not have these qualities. Instead, they involve mistreatment, disrespect, intense jealousy, controlling behavior, or physical violence. 

Abuse in a relationship can be emotional, financial, sexual, or physical and can include threats, isolation, and intimidation.

If your partner is abusing you, you may feel confused, afraid, angry, and/or trapped. All of these emotions are normal responses to abuse. 

You may also blame yourself for what is happening. But no matter what others might say, you are never responsible for your partner’s abusive actions.

Relationship abuse is always a decision that a perpetrator makes to harm their partner.

Relationship abuse is not caused by alcohol or drugs, stress, anger management, or provocation. It is the perpetrator’s choice to be abusive.