CU CARES

Relationship Violence

Early warning signs of relationship violence…

Your dating partner is jealous or possessive
Your partner has quick and extreme mood swings
Your partner has sudden outbursts of anger or overreacts to small things
Your partner has a problem with authority figures
Your partner treats you like a possession or attempts to isolate you from family and friends
Your partner has trouble discussing or showing feelings other than anger
You receive a lot of negative teasing from your partner, even in front of friends
You feel like it is your responsibility to make the relationship work, and you are expected to change your behavior to suit the other person
You are afraid of what your partner might do when he/she is angry
You are afraid to end the relationship

Your partner forces you to have sex against your will or to participate in sexual acts that you choose not to
Your partner pushes, slaps, kicks, or punches you
Your partner exposes you to high risk behaviors such as reckless driving
Your partner continually criticizes, yells and/or insults
Your partner ignores feelings
Your partner ridicules your most valued beliefs

If you hear a violent incident occurring, call the police
Help victims locate resources
Provide support during appointments and support throughout the decision making process
Demonstrate concern
Provide support and encouragement
Victims should hear from friends and family that they are worth better treatment and deserve to be loved. Supportive positive messages may enable victims to find the strength within themselves to escape violence. Understand if victims are reluctant to leave: staying may be a survival strategy. Let victims know you are willing to help when they are ready to ask for assistance.