Relationship abuse doesn't just mean that someone is being hit, punched, kicked or physically hurt. A person can be abused emotionally, which means that another is controlling, manipulating and exerting power over her. This includes name-calling, humiliation and threats. People can also be abused sexually in relationships. A woman who is married and has consented to sex in the past can be sexually abused by her husband if she does not want to have sexual intercourse and he forces it upon her.

Some victims of relationship abuse are physically abused. One way people abuse others is through exhibiting dominance, because they want to be the one in charge of the relationship. Abusers humiliate their partners to reduce their self-worth and exert power. Another way abusers use their power is to isolate their victims from friends and family. People become more vulnerable if they don't have support systems. Abusers also scare their victims with threats and intimidation tactics. Someone being abused may be made to feel that it is their fault. The abuser puts the blame on the victim.

Here are 10 signs that you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship: 1. You feel afraid of your partner. 2. You feel like you can never do anything right and are always blamed for things. 3. Your feel helpless and hopeless. 4. You feel like you are always walking on eggshells and afraid of angering your partner. 5. Your partner threatens to hurt you, your pets or your family. 6. Your partner humiliates you. 7. Your partner makes fun of you regularly. 8. Your partner blames you for his anger. 9. Your partner is extremely jealous. 10. Your partner doesn't allow you to see friends or family members.

If you're not being abused and want to help others who are being abused, you have many options. If you hear domestic violence happening at a neighbor's house, call the police. Talk to friends and family members about the signs of abuse. Reach out to someone who you believe might be abused by his partner. Give assistance to domestic violence shelters or volunteer at a domestic violence shelter or hotline.

Many people wonder why victims of abuse don't leave their current relationships. One reason may be that the victim is in danger if she leaves the relationship. The abuser could seriously hurt her, a family member or her children. Another reason that victims stay in abusive relationships is due to financial reasons. A victim may not be able to support herself and her children without the abuser. If you know someone in an abusive relationship, listen to her reasons for staying in the relationship. Understanding these reasons can make you a better resource for this person.