If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic violence, please contact the Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-7233 or texting START to 88788. This list of resources in Colorado may also be helpful. Stay safe.
Understanding how to identify common signs of domestic violence can enable you to get a family member, friend or loved one the help they need.
To schedule a consultation with our team for a domestic violence dispute, contact us online or via phone at (719) 212-4227.
Isolation As an Indicator of Abuse
One of the first things abusers often do is try and isolate their survivors/victims.
Isolation plays a crucial role in many abuse dynamics. It can make the survivor/victim financially and emotionally dependent on the abuser, making it much more difficult to leave the abusive situation.
It can also help the abuser prevent friends, family and loved ones from taking note of the abuse.
If someone you know has a new partner and starts intensely isolating themselves, take note. This can come in the form of failing to attend events, such as dinners or hangouts, that the survivor/victim used to go to and enjoy.
It can also manifest in the form of restrictions placed on the survivor/victim. For example, if your friend suddenly starts having less money or spending less because their partner has apparently allotted them a certain budget, it could be a sign of financial abuse.
Pay Attention to How They Act Around (or About) Their Suspected Abuser
Many survivors/victims of abuse will show subtle signs of distress around an abuser. For example, they may flinch when their abuser makes sudden gestures. They may go out of their way to try and defend their abuser from any concerns you have in an unusually aggressive manner.
Of course, these aren't ironclad signs of abuse. Body language and behaviors occur for a multitude of reasons. But, if you believe your suspicions are well-founded, it's still worth paying attention to.
Take Note of Makeup & Clothing
In situations where physical abuse is prevalent, survivors/victims often take certain steps to mask signs of abuse, such as bruises.
Take note if someone you think is in an abusive relationship wears certain garments at odd times, such as a heavy turtleneck in summer, despite suffering from discomfort. You may also want to look for exceptionally heavy makeup around the shoulders, on the arms, around the throat, and on their face that could mask bruises.
Make Yourself an Available Resource
Frequently, survivors/victims feel too isolated to report abuse. If you suspect a friend, family member, or loved one is suffering from abuse, let them know that you're there for them, and will do whatever you can to help them find safety. Just knowing that they have an ally can be enough for a survivor/victim to escape their abuser and take action against them.
At the Law Office of Greg Quimby, P.C., we'll help you take the necessary actions to receive protection from an abuser, such as filing for a protective order. Contact us online or via phone at (719) 212-4227 to schedule a consultation with our team.