Signs a relationship could turn to violence

 https://www.verywellmind.com/signs-that-a-relationship-could-turn-violent-4100203

Signs a relationship could turn to violence

Relationship Violence Warning Signs

It can be very challenging at the outset of a relationship to know if someone will become abusive or violent. While risk factors may be present, intimate partner violence can affect people from all walks of life. It is important not to blame the victim.

While you can never know with certainty, there are some signs to watch out for that may foretell whether a relationship that starts off seemingly happy and healthy is likely to become abusive. Some of these red flags include:6

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Signs of abuse.

Accusing you of flirting or having an affair with others without evidence or reason

Alcohol or substance misuse7

Attempts to isolate you from your family and friends

Blaming external forces for problems, mood swings, and behaviors

Controlling all of the household finances or financial abuse

Extreme jealousy and possessiveness

Extreme sensitivity to any type of emotional distress

Mood swings and episodes of intense anger

Talking about you in a demeaning way to other people

Verbal abuse and threats of violence

Very intense and quick involvement at the start of a relationship

Engaging in a type of behavior known as love-bombing can also be a sign that a relationship might turn violent. Love-bombing is defined as an attempt to manipulate and control someone by showering them with an abundance of affection and attention.8

In these cases, love-bombing often follows an argument or even an episode of verbal abuse or physical violence. The goal of the behavior is to make the recipient of the affection feel dependent and obliged to stay in the relationship.

 Top Warning Signs of Domestic Abuse

Protective Factors Against Relationship Violence

There are a number of factors that may help protect people against intimate partner violence. Having positive relationships with other people and a strong social support network can help. 

The CDC also suggests that a number of community factors can help reduce domestic violence.4 Community involvement, safe and stable housing, access to medical and mental health services, and community economic resources may all play a protective role.

A 2018 systematic review found that among older adults, the three main protective factors against abuse were social support, help-seeking behavior, and the availability of community resources to address abuse.9

One key is to be aware of anything that makes you feel unsafe or uncomfortable and to address those issues with your partner early on, even in an otherwise positive relationship. This practice may help ward off a situation that could progress toward domestic violence. It's encouraging if your partner is receptive to your concerns, but less so if they are overly dismissive or defensive.

If there are warning signs or behaviors that make you feel unsafe and your partner refuses to acknowledge them, explore them, or stay open to taking steps to address them, it is important to consider your safety and consider ending the relationship. Seek support from friends and family and call a domestic violence hotline if you need support or help to make a plan to leave the relationship.

Recap

Community resources and social support can play an important role in the prevention of relationship violence. If you spot signs that your relationship might become violent, make sure you have support from family and friends and turn to resources in your community for help.