Do I Suffer From Abuse By Nonspouse Or Nonpartner?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner engaged in nonaccidental acts of physical force (e.g., pushing/shoving, scratching, slapping, throwing something that could hurt, punching, biting) that have resulted—or have reasonable potential to result—in physical harm or have caused significant fear in you?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner involved you in forced or coerced sexual acts?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner berated or humiliated you?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner interrogated you?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner restricted your ability to come and go freely?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner obstructed your access to assistance?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner threatened you?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner harmed or threatened to harm people or things that you care about?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner restricted your access to or use of economic resources?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner isolated you from family, friends, or social support resources?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner stalked you?

Has a nonspouse or nonpartner tried to make you think that you are crazy?

Based on your answer, it is unlikely that you suffer from abuse by nonspouse or nonpartner.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who suffer from abuse by nonspouse or nonpartner. Psychological abuse is defined as attempts to control, isolate, or frighten someone else. When the abuser is a nonspouse or a nonpartner, it could be anybody else: maybe your co-worker, an acquaintance, or maybe your own boss. Regardless of who the abuser is, you don’t deserve to be abused and most importantly: it’s not your fault. It may be important to cut all ties with the abuser, if that is possible. You may find it helpful to talk with a counselor. Trust your gut feeling and know that this is not right. You deserve to be happy.