Not only does this destroy your self esteem but it can also paralyze you from leaving the abusive relationship as you believe you have no where and no one else to go to. Physical abuse can and often does escalate from intimidation-yelling, angry gestures, displaying weapons such as a knife or gun, to physical violence. You may be pushed, slapped, punched, kicked, choked, sexually assaulted, assaulted with a weapon or even involved in an intentional car accident. Financial abuse is often forgotten as a method used to control a person. Sexual abuse is not limited to rape.
Victims come from all racial, religious, socioeconomic, age and educational subgroups.
Some surveys indicate that as many as one in four American families experience violence within the home. You or someone you know may be suffering from domestic violence. Frequently the victim does not identify themselves as one because they take personal responsibility for their abuser's actions. After all, if you weren't so stupid, ugly, lazy or inadequate then you wouldn't drive the offender to such abusive behavior. The victim is left with both the fear and the guilt.