Dating is the first step in starting a relationship. It should be a time of establishing trust and mutual respect, as well as enjoying one another's company. Unfortunately, not all dating experiences are positive. According to kidshealth.org, "1 in 11 high school students report being physically hurt by a date." Knowing what signs to watch for can help you determine whether someone you care about is being abused by her partner.
Violence
Hitting, kicking, slapping, punching, or striking another person with or without an object are examples of physical abuse. The resultant injuries can be minor, such as cuts and bruises, or far more serious, such as broken bones. Regardless of the injury sustained, abuse is abuse. Being grabbed roughly is just as abusive as having your wrist snapped. Frequent injuries are a red flag that someone you care about might be in an abusive relationship. Furthermore, a victim often has ready explanations for her wounds. She might tell you that she fell down, bumped a wall or got hurt playing sports. You should be especially wary of these stories if your friend wasn't accident-prone before she started dating her partner. Do not ignore things like constant bruising and suspicious excuses. They are signs your loved one may be in danger.
Clothing
Ashamed, victims often feel compelled to try to hide signs of abuse. For this reason, an abrupt change in clothing style could also indicate an abusive relationship. To cover up welts or scratches, your friend or loved one might wear clothes that are inappropriate for the season or the occasion. For example, she might begin wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants all the time or insist on wearing sunglasses indoors, or to cover bruising of the face, a young woman might start wearing heavy makeup. It is important that you be able to recognize these secondary physical signs of abuse. They may be less obvious than broken bones, but they are just as telling that a loved one is being abused.
Demeanor
Certain changes in a person's demeanor could also signify an abusive relationship. Take note of a loved one's behavior when she is around her boyfriend, particularly if she becomes visibly anxious or fearful. By itself, nervousness might not mean anything more serious than a minor disagreement between herself and her partner. However, taken in context with repeated injuries, excuses that don't quite add up, and attempts to cover up wounds with clothing, accessories, and makeup, her changed demeanor could be another sign she is being abused. If you suspect that someone you love is being hurt by her partner, get her help as soon as possible. No one has the right to hurt another person.
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