This archive report was first published on 6 August 2019.
Published on August 6, 2019, a therapist shared insights on identifying toxic and abusive relationships.
Abusive relationships can be subtle, making it difficult to recognize the warning signs. However, being aware of these signs can help you protect yourself and your loved ones.
According to Grace Kariuki, a professional in marriage and family affairs, some common signs of an abusive relationship include:
- Explosive anger, often directed at the victim, even when they're not at fault.
- Silent treatment as a form of punishment.
- Criticizing the victim, including their friends, job, family, and decisions.
- Intimidation and threats to leave the victim.
- Physical violence, which can be a sign of a deeper issue.
- Emotional manipulation, including threats of self-harm if the victim leaves.
- Threats to harm or kill the victim.
- Restricting the victim's freedom, such as asking them to stop working or pursuing their interests.
- Forcing the victim to change who they are and what they stand for.
Codependent relationships are also a concern, where one person stays in an unhappy relationship, feeling desperate to stay or change the other person.
Grace notes that codependent individuals are relationship addicts, feeling like they can't live without a relationship and enabling toxic habits to avoid being alone.
Abusive relationships often follow a cycle of abuse, where the love and conflict are intense, but the good experiences keep the victim in the relationship.
