Is This Abuse?

Is My Relationship Abusive?

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The Power and Control Wheel is a tool used to help victims of abuse recognize warning signs of abusive behavior in their own relationships. The wheel depicts various patterns and actions that an individual will use to intentionally control or dominate their partner. Physical, emotional, psychological, and financial aspects of abuse are outlined to highlight the different experiences a survivor may face.

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If it sounds like we’re talking about you, you are not alone. We believe you. It is not your fault. We are here to support you, to offer you resources and to provide you with the information you need to make safe choices for yourself in a confidential environment. You can be safe. You can do this. We can help.

Call DAWN’s 24-hour Advocacy and Support Line today at 425-656-7867

Power and Control Wheel

Do you feel…

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Confused about your relationship?

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Like you are going crazy?
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That you are “walking on eggshells”?
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Like you can’t spend time with family or friends?
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As if you can’t do anything right?
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That your partner decides when and where you have sex?
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Like you are in a relationship with two completely different people?
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That you need to justify everything you do?
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Drained?

Does your Partner…

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Call you names or put you down?
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Want to know what you’re doing and who you’re with all the time?
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Act extremely jealous?
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Find excuses to keep you from getting enough sleep?
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Push, shove or grab you?
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Keep you from leaving when you want to leave?
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Force you to do things sexually you don’t feel comfortable doing?
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Promise to change (get counseling, go to AA, etc.)?

FAQs

Who created the power and control wheel?

The Domestic Abuse Intervention Project in Duluth, Minnesota developed the Power and Control wheel in 1984.

Are men victims of domestic violence?

Yes – according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, approximately 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner.

Why do survivors stay in their abusive relationships?

Every survivor has a unique experience and reasoning behind their decision-making process. Survivors often stay out of fear, unsupportive friends and family, financial circumstances, parenting, and more. DAWN is here to help survivors assess their options and connect them with what they need to move forward and rebuild their lives.