Who is at Risk?
Unfortunately, there is no one behavior to indicate a batterer. One cannot tell if another individual will be abusive merely by looking at him/her. There are, however, some things to look for when you, or someone you care about, are in a relationship.
The abusive person might:
§ Act very jealous
§ Have a bad temper
§ Show little or no respect for his/her partner
§ Demeaning partner (calling him/her offensive animal names, body parts); belittling, humiliating and threatening
§ Dramatic mood swings (Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde)
§ Criticize or embarrass the partner in front of others
§ Control the money
§ Dictate his/her partners daily activities
§ Mistreatment or abuse of pets
§ Throw things or get physical when things are not done to his/her specifications
§ History of abuse as a child, or spousal abuse between partner’s parents
§
Drink heavily or use other drugs
If you notice three or more of these behaviors on a constant basis, the relationship may not be on equal footing; there may not be a balance of power and control in the relationship.
Abuse is serious.
You could be seriously hurt. Your children could be hurt. You could even die.
Have you been…
§ Called demeaning names
§ Shaken
§ Punched
§ Beaten
§ Denied medical treatment
§ Pushed
§ Pinched
§ Kicked
§ The target of flying objects
§ Bitten
§ Slapped
§ Forced into Sex
§ Isolated from friends and family
If so, you are a victim of what is usually called “spousal abuse." In addition, your abuser may do things to you that you don’t think are abuse… but they are.
Get Help!
Crisis & Info. Line: (406) 782-8511
Toll free: 1-800-479-8511
E-mail: safespacebutte@gmail.com