Warning Signs
Signs of an Abusive Relationship
Abuse is using something in a way that is wrong or harmful. Abuse can take many forms within interpersonal relationships, including violence. People can experience different forms of abuse at the same time:
| Different Forms of Abuse | Definitions |
|---|---|
| Physical Abuse | Using physical force (violence) or threats of physical force (violence) against another person. |
| Verbal Abuse | Using language (written or spoken) to harm someone. |
| Emotional Abuse | Causing emotional harm without physical injury (examples: insults, humiliation, criticism). |
| Psychological Abuse | Causing psychological harm without physical injury (examples: manipulating). |
| Sexual Abuse | Forcing sexual acts without consent (including making threats, unwanted sexual comments and advances). |
| Financial Abuse | Controlling someone’s access to money or using their money without their knowledge, consent or permission. |
| Neglect | Causing serious harm by not providing the necessities of life. |