This is a mugshot of a man who was convicted for domestic abuse. You might say the signs were obvious from the beginning. But aren’t they always there in the beginning… the temper, the irrational questioning, the possessive demeanor?
In the past week, several women in my life have told me their stories. It seemed like a sign to share it on my blog.
It starts with a whirlwind affair: the romance and attention. His questions and constant hovering are flattering. He really loves me!
I know far too many women who have dated and/or married such men. These women are smart, loving, and highly educated. It goes both ways, women do this to men, too.
Why do the perpetrators do this? Because (in most cases), they lack self-esteem. No one can give them self-esteem, which means that it’s not going to get better until they work on their self-confidence.
But the suspicious questions and constant angry surveillance take a toll: paranoia, insecurity, resentment and finally, anger.