What are the red flags of emotional abuse?
1. Closely monitoring a partner’s whereabouts and social plans shows interest and care.
2. Most loving relationships contain a level of judgment and criticism.
3. The feeling of “walking on eggshells” around a partner is a common sign of an abusive relationship.
4. Emotional abuse typically escalates slowly and gradually.
5. Sudden, intense periods of affection (love-bombing), followed by periods of mistreatment, can be part of an abusive cycle.
6. It’s hard when someone dismisses their partner’s needs or feelings, but if there’s a reason for it, like the person had a bad day, it’s okay.
7. Repeatedly mocking a partner’s interests, identity, or vulnerabilities can be an abusive tactic to gain power.
8. Explosive or unpredictable anger in relationships is concerning.
9. Becoming isolated from family and friends is a normal part of long-term relationships.
10. Emotional abuse only happens in romantic relationships. It can’t occur in friendships, families, or the workplace.