5 Important Symptoms Of An Emotionally Abusive Relationship

Abuse can be more than physical.

By Julia Flood — Last updated on Mar 19, 2023

Photo: STEKLO / Shutterstock

While most women would agree that physical violence has no part in a love relationship, what are more subtle signs that you are not being treated well?

Disagreements are normal in a relationship. Arguments happen. Sometimes we get irritated with our partners, or we become bored. Sometimes we'd rather spend time alone than with anyone else — even the person we love.

Marital issues are common. What isn't common and should never be acceptable is abuse of any kind. That includes emotional abuse as well as physical.

But where do you draw the line between ordinary arguments and emotional abuse?

Here are five important symptoms of an emotionally abusive relationship:

1. He's moody

And not just every once in a while, but most of the time. You never know what mood he will be in, or what you did this time to upset him, but he is always sure it's your fault. Consequently, you find yourself walking on eggshells trying to avoid problems, but it never seems to work. You feel a knot in your stomach whenever he is around you.

2. He's a contrarian

No matter what you say, he says the opposite. It's always black or white with him.

He never caveats his views with "I think" or "in my opinion." He doesn't show interest in how you or others see the world. He may call you dumb or naïve or otherwise try to undermine your self-esteem.

Interestingly, while he belittles you in private, he may be quite the charmer in public. This is extra confusing because none of your friends or family are able to validate what you're experiencing.

3. He's mistrustful of you

He's always suspicious. He says you do things just to harm him. He says you flirt with other men, even though you don't.

4. He's unapproachable

You've tried talking to him about the problems with your relationship. You've tried to tell him how he makes you feel. Every time it's been a disaster ... so you've stopped.

He repeatedly blames you for all misunderstandings, mocks your concerns, and throws them back in your face. Now, editing your thoughts and second-guessing yourself has become second nature.

5. You feel stuck

The best way to describe your feelings is "confused." You aren't happy, but you're not sure of your alternatives.

Focus on your point of view — not his

You've become an expert in trying to see the world from his point of view. He subjects you to bullying and gaslighting, where he tries to convince you that you're crazy and you're the cause of all your relationship problems. You have a lot of empathy for him and think that with your love he will change if only you hang in there long enough.

Now, I don't know your particular situation and cannot tell you if your boyfriend falls into the abuser category. But, if you recognize yourself in these above examples, you should know this is not normal and it's not okay.

So, where do you go from here? Plan your next steps wisely. Educate yourself about emotional or psychological abuse. Seek the counsel of family, friends, clergy, online forums, professional counselors/therapists, and other resources local to your town.