TYPES OF ABUSE
First, domestic abuse is not just a physical act. It is manifested as sexual, emotional. and financial abuse. Just because your mate is not physically abusing you does not mean you are free and clear. The perpetrator of abuse really loves a sick sense of power and control, and unfortunately, there are people whose self-esteem is so low that they live under these conditions every day of their life. Let's take a look at the different types of abuse.
PHYSICAL ABUSE
Slapping, kicking, shoving, punching and choking are obvious. The abuser can leave very physical signs of abuse on the victim: scratches, cuts, broken bones and abrasions. Unfortunately, when an abuser cannot stand the thought of losing someone to another lover, or because the victim has decided to leave the relationship fatalities can occur.
Many relationships have either ended in murder of the victim, or the victim killing the abuser. Many people, particularly women, are serving prison sentences because they decided to take the law in their own hands, or because of an impromptu, yet predictable, violent situation.
Often times, the abusive relationship ends in homicide/suicide type scenarios. Entire households have been murdered which shows the extremes to which this can manifest.
EMOTIONAL ABUSE
This type of abuse consist of mind and love manipulation. Abusers often maintain power over their partners that lower their self-esteem and makes them feel helpless. The victim of abuse looses a strong sense of who they are; because their very existence is based upon the hostility, moods and opinions of the abuser.
Emotional abuse can cause serious harm resulting in depression, anxiety attacks and excessive self-destructive thoughts. Because the victim is often insulted, intimidated, humiliated, he or she, walks around with a slumped down body posture and a sad face
The victim is often spoken to like a child. He or she becomes they object of the abusers foul language. All three, four and five letter works, including, Mofo. If the victim has ever disclosed any personal information about their family or past history, the information is constantly brought up into their face, which reinforces the shame.
FINANCIAL ABUSE
Being denied access to money is a more subtle sign of abuse. Taking paychecks and withholding bill payments are a few examples of economic abuse. Often, the victim is given an allowance, or very strong directives on how to spend money. This leads to financial dependence on the abuser, an effective method of power and control.
SEXUAL ABUSE
A person who is sexually abused is often manipulated into doing sexual acts that they are not comfortable with, but they do it to please their mate. This can include oral and anal sex; using instruments and objects; unwanted multiple sex partners, or any thing else that makes a person feel uncomfortable. If it is against the person's will - it is abuse. If they suffer ridicule and abuse for not participating - it is abuse. This destroys a person's self-worth when they are doing things they are not comfortable with.
