Financial abuse is a serious form of domestic violence, but no one ever really talks about it.
While financial abuse is devastating, many, like me, may be totally unaware it’s happening to them.
In the beginning, financial abuse can be so subtle it’s easily misinterpreted as a loving gesture.
“I don’t want finances to stress you,” my first husband would say to me. “Let, me take care of the money and I’ll give what you need.”
However, as in my case, the abuser’s efforts to control will, in time, escalate into intimidation, threats of violence and often, physical harm.
How do you know if you’re a victim? Here are 10 Red Flags. Read them carefully and circle the ones that apply to you:
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Your spouse refuses to talk about money. He gets defensive, angry or accusatory.
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Your spouse goes on spending binges, buying expensive items you really can’t afford.
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Your spouse racks up debt on your credit card.
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Your spouse frequently gambles, at the casino, the racetrack, or in the stock market.
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You get frequent calls from creditors, which your spouse dismisses or assures you everything is ok.
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Your spouse keeps saying you don’t have enough to buy certain items, which doesn’t make sense based on your income.
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Your spouse uses money to control you or restricts your access to money.
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You question his financial decisions, and he immediately turns the table and makes you wrong.
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You notice how often you excuse, justify, rationalize his behavior to others and yourself.
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Your gut tells you something is wrong.
Have you been affected by financial abuse? Share in the comments below. Your story could help someone else.
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