Unhealthy Relationships

Do you wonder if you are in an unhealthy relationship? Ask yourself the questions below. If you answer yes to a few, take a closer look:

Does your partner:

• ignore your feelings?
• disrespect you?
• ridicule you, then tell you it is just a joke?
• withhold approval, appreciation, or
  affection?
• give you the silent treatment?
• criticize you, call you names, and yell at you?
• humiliate you in public or private?
• give you a hard time about socializing with friends or family?
• tell you that you are too sensitive?
• hurt you when you are down?
• "twist" your words around against you?
• make decisions for you?
• threaten to leave or throw you out?
• interrupt you and not really listen?
• incite you to rage, which is "proof" that you are too blame?
• "accidentally" hit or push you?

Your situation may be critical if you:

• find yourself walking on eggshells.
• express your opinions less freely.
• feel emotionally unsafe.
• hope things will change...especially through love and understanding.
• finding yourself doubting your memory.
• feel insecure, trapped, and powerless.
• have been afraid of your partner.

If you feel that your relationship may be verbally or emotionally abusive, talk to people you trust. Educate yourself. Do not let verbal and emotional abuse escalate into battery.

Source: Peggy Walton & Dr. Irene Matiato.

For more information, please contact the Women's Center at (203) 392-6946.