How to Spot a Potential Abuser

If you’re afraid that you or someone you love may be getting into an abusive situation, Dr. Phil gives some signs to look for:

• Excessive and quick commitment to relationships
• Isolation
• Extremely possessive and jealous, confused with love
• Control of all money
• Name-calling and demeaning
• Threats against you, your children or of suicide for failure to comply (emotional extortion)
• Exhibits cruelty to animals or children
• Takes away choices such as food, fashion, social life
• Chauvinistic
• Excessive monitoring
• Dominating time
• Extreme sense of entitlement
• Blames the victim (“They made me do it”)
• Insecure but presents a false sense of superiority
• Lack of empathy
• Hypersensitivity and victim mentality
• Extreme controlling behavior early on disguised as concern for safety
• Presents dual personalities
• Poor communication skills
• Has unrealistic expectations or demands