Have you tried to “fix” your marriage by changing yourself, learning better communication skills, attending couple’s therapy?
Many women who are victims of covert abuse are conditioned to believe that their partner’s behavior is their fault – somehow the victim is causing it. This false idea, perpetuated by both abusers and their enablers, leads women on a wild goose chase as they try to “heal” the relationship.
Emotional & Psychological Abuse Is Not A Couple’s Problem: It’s His Problem
The traditional route of couple’s therapy, 12 step groups, and women “working on themselves”, simply doesn’t work when it comes to abuse.
Why?
Because abuse is not a couple’s problem: it’s his problem. Because covert abuse is notoriously difficult to spot, women are left with only the narrative that their abuser is telling them: she is the cause of the problem, if she were just more ____ or less ___, then everything about the marriage would improve.
Am I A Victim of Covert Abuse?
As victims begin the process of empowerment through abuse and trauma education (The BTR.ORG Podcast can help you with this) they may feel uncomfortable with the idea of labelling their partners as abusers and themselves as victims. However, using the correct terminology for both abusers and victims is an important step in helping women find safety and healing.
Are you wondering if you are a victim of covert abuse? Here are five warning signs.
Five Warning Signs of Covert Partner Abuse In Your Relationship
- Do you often feel confused?
- Do you feel like you have to “hide” your activities from your spouse, simple things like phone calls to friends, buying groceries, or eating snacks?
- Do you find yourself defending your partner to family and friends?
- Do you find that you spend a large amount of time reading self-help books and trying to “change” for the better?
- Does your partner manipulate or guilt you into sexual contact?
If you are experiencing any of the bulleted items above, you may be in an abusive relationship.
BTR.ORG Supports Victims of Covert Abuse
Consider attending our BTR.ORG Group Sessions to receive the support you deserve as you begin your journey to healing.
