It is important to understand that domestic violence does not always manifest as physical abuse. Emotional and psychological abuse can be devastating and lead to physical abuse if not handled with boundaries early on. However, Lack of physical violence does not mean the abuser is any less dangerous to the victim, nor does it mean the victim is any less trapped by the abuse.
Narcissistic abuse may begin with red flags and behaviors that may easily be dismissed or downplayed such as name-calling, threats, possessiveness, or distrust. But, in reality these things are coercive tactics used to control a relationship.
It is extremely important to identify narcissistic abuse. Study's have shown that prolonged exposure to emotional and or psychological abuse causes long term damage to the mental / emotional health of resulting in symptoms of depression, anxiety and even physical manifestations. In my recent years of work with victims, It is not uncommon to hear of victims of narcissistic abuse also become treated for things such as adrenal fatigue, tachycardia, pots, and other less common illnesses. Although, these illnesses are still being researched and no direct link to abuse has been medically proven, It is important to mention and you can make your own assessment.
Ultimately, its your mental health, your emotions and physical wellbeing that you are responsible to protect. Why risk any of it for a relationship that you have been coerced into thinking will bring you happiness. Remember "love shouldn’t hurt".
Narcissistic abuse can best be described as "being with people you have no business being with, doing things you have no business doing and going places you have no business going" - Kevin
Emotional/psychological abuse is a behavior your partner uses to control you or damage your emotional well-being. It can be verbal or non-verbal:
▶︎ Name-calling, mocking, intimidation and making humiliating remarks or gestures.
▶︎ Yelling in your face or standing is a menacing way.
▶︎ Placing little value on what you say.
▶︎ Interrupting, changing topics, not listening or responding, and twisting your words.
▶︎ Putting you down in front of other people.
▶︎ Saying negative things about your friends and family.
▶︎ Preventing or making it difficult for you to see friends or relatives Cheating or being overly jealous.
▶︎ Shifting responsibility for abusive behavior by blaming others or saying you caused it.
▶︎ Monitoring your social media, phone calls, texts, car and computer use.