Domestic violence does not discriminate. No one group or individual is immune from the possibility of being or becoming an abuser. Abusers come from all walks of life. They can be plumbers, bankers, doctors, mechanics, store clerks, teachers, lawyers, law enforcement officers, etc. Although they may differ in terms of race, ethnicity, level of education, religion or faith, occupation, socioeconomic status, or sexual orientation, abusers generally share certain characteristics and/or background experiences that lead them to behave in violent and abusive ways.
Typically, abusers use physical violence in combination with other tactics to exercise coercive control over a partner. This combination of violence and control is terrorizing for victims. Once abusers demonstrate how much harm they can cause, their controlling actions alone become threatening enough to keep their victims in a state of constant fear. (See “What is Intimate Partner Violence?” for more.)
But have you ever wondered if you might be behaving in physically or emotionally harmful ways with your partner? See below for a list of characteristics and descriptors associated with different kinds of abuse.
These behaviors are red flags, so take them very seriously. Although it may be difficult for you to recognize or acknowledge any these actions, doing so will be your first step toward a healthier relationship. By owning up to your behavior, you demonstrate your ability to take steps toward the accountability you need for this pattern to change.
Information and assistance is available under “How Do I Get Help If I Am Being Abusive?”
Do I...
Again, it may be hard to say yes to these questions or to accept that there may be a problem. But if any sound even a little familiar, visit “How Do I Get Help If I Am Being Abusive?” to get assistance.
It’s important to note that some of you might be experiencing a different pattern of abuse referred to as “situational couple violence.” This type of abuse occurs when both partners end up using physical force or violence when trying to resolve conflicts. The difference lies in the fact that neither one is focused on the need to exert control over their partner. However, situational couple violence can still be very serious in terms of potential injuries and harm. Assistance is also highly recommended in this case as well.
By Silvia Echevarria-Doan, PH.D. LMFT, LCSW
Founder & Therapist, The Alma Therapy Institute, LLC in Gainesville, FL
Associate Professor, Emeritus, Counselor Education, University of Florida
References
Characteristics of abusers. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.ilrctbay.com/upload/custom/abuse/content/abusers.htm
Johnson, M. P. (2008). A typology of domestic violence: Intimate terrorism, violentresistance, and situational couple violence. Lebanon, NH: Northeastern University Press.
Return to Topic: Intimate Partner Violence and Abuse
