Characteristics of an Abuser

What does an abuser typically look like? They can look like the person sitting next to you, the person checking you out at the grocery store...they can look like YOU. What characteristics set them apart from everyone else?

An abuser usually:

• Has a low self-esteem.
• Believes myths about battering.
•  Believes in stereotypical gender roles.
•  Blames the victim and others for their behavior.
•   Is pathologically jealous.
•  Presents a dual personality.
•  May use alcohol or drugs to manage stress.
• Views their partner as their property or possession. 

While many people may think of domestic violence as a "heterosexual" problem, this is simply not the case.

• In figures reflective of the general population, 1 in 4 gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people are battered by a partner (Jane Doe, Inc.).

So, what can you do about domestic violence?

• Learn more about the issue
• Visit or call Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention & Prevention if you have questions, suspect that someone you know may be in an abusive relationship or if you want information on upcoming events. We are located on the first floor of the Thomson Student Health Center, our door faces the Bull Street Parking garage. The office number is 803-777-8248. We're open from 8AM-5PM, Monday through Friday.

Step in, Speak up!