Are there any forms of violence in your marriage?

Before you answer too quickly, consider this: violence isn’t always physical. While we often associate domestic violence with hitting, punching, or physical harm, there are many subtler — but equally damaging — forms of abuse that can exist within a marriage.

I don’t want to alarm you or cause unnecessary concern, but I do want to gently ask:
Could there be forms of violence in your marriage that you’re unaware of?

Physical Violence Is Not the Only Kind

There’s been an important increase in conversations around domestic violence lately — and rightly so. Husbands and wives should never be physically abusive toward each other.

Physical abuse includes:

• Biting
• Slapping
• Punching
• Kicking
• Hitting

Statistics show that physical domestic violence is more commonly reported by women, but men can also be victims. We’ve heard from husbands who have been physically harmed by their wives — and their pain is just as real.

Let’s be clear: just because a man may be able to “absorb the punches” doesn’t make it okay. Violence is never acceptable, regardless of gender. Even one case is one too many.

Domestic Violence Goes Beyond the Physical

This week, I want to invite you to broaden your understanding of what domestic violence can look like. Physical abuse is only one part of the picture.

Other serious forms of domestic violence include:

• Emotional abuse
• Spiritual abuse
• Mental abuse
• Economic/financial abuse
• Sexual abuse

These forms of violence can be just as devastating — and in some cases, even more so because they are harder to see, prove, or talk about.

What You Need to Know

Here’s what I know for sure:

• There is never an excuse for violence.
• Violence is never the fault of the victim.
• Abusers are broken people who need help.

If you’re in an abusive marriage — physically, emotionally, or otherwise — and feel unsafe, please seek help immediately, especially if you or someone in your home is in danger.

And please hear this clearly:
You do not deserve to be abused.
It’s not your fault.
You are worthy of love, respect, and safety.

You are not alone. There is help, and there is hope.If you or someone you know is in a violent or abusive relationship, please reach out here:
👉 https://www.thehotline.org