Hope Alliance
Hope Alliance Safety Alert:
 Computer use can be monitored and is impossible to completely clear.
Your abuser may still be able to see what Web sites you have visited and
e-mails you have sent even if you delete your browser history and files.

If you are afraid your computer usage might be monitored, please use
a safer computer to view this Web site. If you need to quickly leave this
Web site, click the "Escape" button at any time and
you will be redirected to Google.com.

Please note this site is not monitored for requests for help.
If you need assistance, you must call the 24-hour hotline.
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Signs of Abuse

If a person displays three or more of the following behaviors, there is a strong possibility of emotional, physical or sexual abuse within a relationship. If you experience or witness some of these warning signs, please call the Hope Alliance 24-hour hotline at 1-800-460-SAFE(7233) to get advice and information.
  • Jealousy
  • Controlling behavior
  • Possessive behavior
  • Quick relationship involvement
  • Unrealistic expectations
  • Isolation
  • Controls access to finances
  • Keeps you from getting a job
  • Blames others for their problems
  • Blames others for their feelings
  • Hypersensitivity
  • Cruelty to animals or children
  • Use of force in sex
  • Cruel or hurtful language
  • Insists on rigid gender roles
  • Sudden mood changes
  • Has a previous record of abuse
  • Threatens violence
  • Breaks or hits objects
  • Uses force during arguments
  • Threats of suicide

The signs for teen dating violence are generally similar to the traditional signs of abuse. But there are some unique characteristics of teen dating violence. Here are things for friends and parents to look for:

  • Their boyfriend/girlfriend calls them names or puts them down in front of others.
  • Their boyfriend/girlfriend gets extremely jealous of even innocent communications with members of the opposite sex.
  • Your friend/child cancels plans at the last minute, and gives unbelievable excuses.
  • They frequently apologize for the actions and behaviors of their boyfriend/girlfriend.
  • Their boyfriend/girlfriend is constantly texting or calling demanding to know what they are up to.
  • Your friend/child's weight, habits, daily routines, grades and/or appearance change dramatically.
  • Their boyfriend/girlfriend easily loses their temper.
  • Your friend/child has visible bruises or injuries that they can't explain, or they wear clothing inappropriate for the weather to hide injuries.
  • Your friend/child spends excessive amounts of time on the cell phone or computer in constant communication with their boyfriend/girlfriend.

The effects of sexual assault can be devastating to victims and their loved ones. The effects may be brief, or they may last a very long time. Everyone's response will be different depending on the situation, but common effects include:

  • Flashbacks
  • Nightmares
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Depression
  • Increased fear
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Sleep avoidance
  • Isolation
  • Sudden crying
  • Feeling like no one understands
  • Increased anger
Questions to Ask Yourself
  • Do you feel afraid of your partner?
  • Do you feel like you can't do anything right within your relationship?
  • Are you embarrassed by your partner's behavior toward you?
  • Do you feel like you deserve to be hurt and mistreated?
  • Do you avoid anything that might upset your partner because you are afraid of how they will react?

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© 2009 Hope Alliance
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1011 Gattis School Rd #106
Round Rock, TX 78664
512-255-1212
24-Hour Hotline: 1-800-460-SAFE