Recognizing the Signs of Domestic Violence

 Posted on July 17,2015 in Domestic Violence

Domestic violence can seem simple. When one spouse physically abuses his or her partner, kicking, punching, and berating him or her, that spouse is an abuser. But can you recognize the other signs of domestic violence? More importantly, would you be able to recognize them if you, yourself, were a victim of domestic violence and do you know what to do if you are a victim?

Consider the most important signs of domestic violence to determine if you are familiar with them or you have seen them happening in your relationship. If you are a victim, get out of your home as soon as you can. Illinois has a network of domestic violence shelters where you can go to be safe from your abusive spouse. Once you are out of the home, your next step is to seek legal action to obtain an Order of Protection and/or file for divorce.

Are Your Accusations of Abuse Met with Denial?

A key element in nearly every domestic abuse case is denial. The abuser denies that he or she is violent, creating a sense of self-doubt in the victim. Your spouse might even go as far as to tell you that you deserve his or her violence, telling you that you “made” him or her abuse you.

Are You Losing Contact with Friends and Family?

Another prominent element in domestic violence cases is isolation. If your partner is slowly causing you to sever or lose your close relationships, seek help. He or she might do this through psychological methods, such as convincing you that your friends and family members are harmful or through a physical method, such as moving with you far from your hometown or keeping you from using the car or public transportation to visit others.

You Are Constantly Trying to Please Your Partner

If you feel as though you are never good enough for him or her or catch yourself attempting to cater to your partner because you are afraid of a violent outburst, you are in an abusive relationship.

You Need to Ask for Money or Are Barred from Getting a Job

Financial abuse is an often-overlooked form of domestic violence. Even if you are employed, if you are required to hand your checks over to your partner and ask for an allowance, you may be experiencing financial abuse. Controlling an individual's purchasing ability is a way to control him or her in other areas.

Contact Kane County Divorce Attorneys

If you are a victim of domestic abuse, you need to end your relationship and take the steps to protect yourself from further harm. The passionate Kane County divorce attorneys at Goostree Law Group can help you achieve this goal by providing you with legal advice, representation for your case, and compassionate support as you go through the process of ending your marriage. Do not be afraid to take a stand for yourself. Contact us today to begin working on your divorce.