What has come to be called “control issues” is a common characteristic running through many unhealthy and abusive relationships.

Potential Warning Signs of an Abusive Relationship

The following potential warning signs could indicate a red flag for friends, parents or adult caregivers about the possibility of an unhealthy relationship:

• No longer wanting to spend time with his/her circle of friends
• Wearing the same clothing over and over
• Appearing distracted when spoken to
• Constantly checking cell phone, gets extremely upset
 if asked to turn off phone
• Withdrawn, quieter than usual
• Angry, irritable when asked how they are doing
• Making excuses for their boyfriend/girlfriend
• Showering immediately after getting home
• Unexplained scratches or bruises

If any of the following potential warning signs seems familiar to you in your relationship, they could indicate the possibility of danger for you:

• History of legal or discipline problems
• Blames you for his/her anger
• Serious drug or alcohol use
• History of violence behavior
• Threatens others regularly
• Insults you or calls you names
• Trouble controlling feelings like anger
• Tells you what to wear, what to do or how to act
• Threatens or intimidates you in order to get their way
• Prevents you from spending time with your friends or family