Signs of Emotional Abuse in Women: What to Look for and How to Find Help

Emotional abuse is insidious, as it does not leave physical marks on its victims. Instead, victims of emotional abuse carry their scars on the inside, and it affects their behavior in all areas. Although it can happen to men, more women face the signs of emotional abuse.

Signs of Emotional Abuse in Women

When it comes to women as victims of emotional abuse, it is typically men who are the abusers. However, it is not uncommon for women to experience abuse at the hands of other women, particularly family members.

The following is a list of signs of emotional abuse based on what the abuser does, but also how a woman being abused may behave outside of the environment.

• The abuser isolates her from friends and family An abuser wants his victim to rely on him. He maintains control, and she cannot turn to anyone for help. He may explain why she should not interact with friends and family. He may also have her unfriend other men on her social media.
• The abuser monitors her social media, phone, and whereabouts The abuser might install a tracker on her cell phone to keep track of her whereabouts or monitor her phone conversations and messages. He may accuse her of infidelity to the point that she avoids any situation where he may question where she has been or who she talked to.
• The abuser withholds affection to punish When his victim does not do what he wants, the abuser may withhold affection or give her the silent treatment. This is a form of manipulation to make her want to please him.
• The abuser insults her Her abuser may sling insults or make demeaning comments about her appearance or her intellect. This is to break down her self-confidence and self-esteem so she will not feel strong enough to leave.
• The woman avoids confrontation Coworkers may notice that the woman avoids all confrontation. It may seem like she walks on eggshells, apologizing for everything, even for the things not her responsibility.
• The woman is a people pleaser The emotionally abused woman may display people-pleasing behaviors at work and in other settings. She may agree to things, although they will put her in a bind. She’s afraid to say no, scared that others will leave or reject her.
• The woman does not know how to set boundaries The woman may not know how to set boundaries if the abuse has been going on for years or she was young when it started. She may be afraid to create boundaries for her abuser to follow. Most abusers will ignore their victim’s boundaries. Counseling can help her set these boundaries and get external support to end the toxic relationship for her own mental health.

Abusers prey on people who love and trust them. It is not a reflection on the victim; this behavior has more to do with the abuser’s own issues. The truth is the victim cannot stop or fix the abuser’s behavior. They can only end or, at the very least, distance themselves from the abuse. A counselor can help with the process and offer support and guidance.

Counseling for the Signs of Emotional Abuse

If you or someone you love has been the victim of emotional abuse, contact us today to speak to a representative. We can put you in touch with a counselor specializing in the signs of emotional abuse. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Let us help you rebuild your life free from the stressors of emotional abuse.