RECOGNIZING ABUSE IN A RELATIONSHIP

In order to recognize early abusive signs, one must stop rationalizing “abusive” behaviors as “normal.” If you see ONE abusive behavior, regardless of how small, you need to remind yourself that it IS abuse. Period! With this new skill, you will soon be dating men or women who treat you with dignity and respect—the way we all deserve to be treated.

Below is a list of common abusive behaviors to watch for from abusive men or abusive women:

• Criticism about your good qualities,
• Past abusive relationships,
• Criminal activities,
• Drinking or drug problems, past or present,
• Mood swings,
• Discourages your successes,
• Jealousy,
• Abusive family members or spouses of siblings,
• Attempts to control your whereabouts,
• Disrespect toward you publicly or privately,
• Violations of others rights,
• Irresponsibility,
• Attempts to keep you isolated,
• Persistent lying,
• History of truancy, delinquency and running away,
• Highly reactive,
• Streaks of meanness toward others for no reason,
• Threatened by relationships with men, past, present or imagined.

For more information, contact the Family Law Offices of Renee M. Marcelle at (415) 456-4444, or online at http://www.familylawmarin.com/ --