There are three main types of dating abuse that you should be aware about when you or one of your friends are dating. The main types of abuse are physical abuse, emotional abuse and sexual abuse. There are distinct differences between the three, and when you are aware of what each means, then you will be able to identify it at the drop of a dime.
Physical abuse happens when someone actually does something physical to hurt the other person or knock that person off balance against their will. For example, if a man is upset at his partner and he slaps her across the face, then that is physical abuse. Another example is when he shoves her out of the way while walking past her. If she did not approve of this or is not in the mood for it, then it can be counted as abuse. In fact, there is no time when anyone should be pushed, shoved or hit. Other examples of physical dating abuse are when one or both partners are kicking, scratching, biting each other or throwing things at each other. The reason why this is so bad is because it can easily escalate into domestic violence where someone can get seriously hurt or even killed. If you see this happening, then run quick!
Emotional abuse happens when one partner calls the other partner names or puts them down. There can be emotional abuse without physical abuse. It is one thing to give constructive criticism, but to tear someone down or to belittle them, especially in front of other friends and family is not good at all. If someone is to point out something wrong that you did, then there must also be a solution mentioned, and it must be presented in a courteous way. No person deserves to be called any names or be bullied. Another form of emotional abuse is when one partner neglects the other partner. He or she either keeps them away from seeing friends and family, or they don’t even spend time with them. Either one is a dangerous form of emotional abuse, and if you see it, then run quickly.
Sexual abuse occurs when your partner forces you to do something sexual against your will, such as touching, kissing, or having sex. This can easily escalate to physical abuse like hitting, shoving, kicking, scratching, etc. If you see any of these forms of dating abuse happening in your relationship or the relationship of one of your friends, then tell them to leave quickly. Everyone will be better off.