Dear Abby reprinted her warning signs of an abuser, whether boyfriend, girlfriend, husband or wife.
Her risk factors include (excerpt):
1. PUSHES FOR QUICK INVOLVEMENT . . . .
2. JEALOUS . . . .
3. CONTROLLING . . . .
4. UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS . . . .
5. ISOLATION . . . .
6. BLAMES OTHERS FOR PROBLEMS OR MISTAKES . . . .
7. MAKES OTHERS RESPONSIBLE FOR HIS OR HER FEELINGS . . . .
8. HYPERSENSITIVITY . . . .
9. CRUELTY TO ANIMALS OR CHILDREN . . . .
10. “PLAYFUL” USE OF FORCE DURING SEX . . . .
11. VERBAL ABUSE . . . .
12. RIGID GENDER ROLES . . . .
13. SUDDEN MOOD SWINGS . . . .
14. PAST BATTERING . . . .
15. THREATS OF VIOLENCE . . . .
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