Breaking the Circle of Pain

Warning Signs That Someone You Know Is Being Abused

The person frequently has unexplained bruises or injuries, or the explanations offered don't add up.

The person becomes unusually quiet or withdrawn, especially when her/his partner is around.

The person often cancels plans last minute.

The person's partner violently loses his/her temper, striking and breaking objects.

The person stops talking about her/his partner.

When the person and her/his partner are together, the partner is very controlling and puts her/him down.

The person stops calling and/or seeing friends and family members.

The person's partner is extremely jealous.

The person casually mentions her/his partner's violent behavior, but then dismisses it.

Her/his partner controls all of the finances.

Featured in: August 2007

Section