Re: Am I Overreacting?
I was with my first husband for 8 years. The first four-five, we argued alot. But he never "hit" me. He did pull my arms, grab them and even spit in my face. It took until 8 years for me to this as "abusive". On Jan 1, he "punched" me and gave me a black eye. Even today, I have to stop myself when telling my story. Because I never considered him "abusive" until he blacked my eye. I now know it was abuse. Even if he didn't punch or slap me.
After we divorced, he broke into my apartment to see if I was dating someone else. He was due to pick up the kids later that evening. Instead of bringing the children, I showed up to confront him about the break in and to tell him I filed a report. I then proceeded to call him "psycho". He pinned me up against my car, and with every ounce of evil in his eyes, he told me "I had not seen phycho yet".
Even if he didn't hit or slap you. He still layed his hands upon you in an inapproriate manner to hurt you and/or control you. You have to know that your not over reacting. And I think you know that too. Your just wanting reassurance. Is he possibly using drugs? Making excuses to get out of the house and then being more controlling? Just a thought.....
I counseled battered woman for three years after my experience. 80% of woman who are abused don't consider it abuse if they are not being kicked, punched or slapped around. (just like myself at the time!) Please make it known to him when he apologizes that this behavior will never be tolerated again, and whatever you threaten....don't make empty threats. He'll never take you seriously.
Good luck!
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