How can someone recognize the presence of abuse in a relationship?

Pastor Response

The point is not to play detective or to try to imagine problems that do not really exist.  Instead, be sensitive about a person’s situation when you think something in their home situation is not quite right.  Does she seem afraid, or strangely unwilling to talk about her family life?  Does she seem “controlled” by her partner, or has her behaviour changed since they entered the relationship?  Is she not allowed to use the car to go where she wants to go, or does her time with friends seem to be strictly limited or not allowed at all?  Is she not permitted to spend any money?  Do you suspect that she may have been injured?  Are there signs of alcoholism in the home?  Be a good listener.

Steve McMullen, MATS RAVE Fredericton Team