Control is the "overarching behavioural characteristic" of abusive men, achieved with criticism, verbal abuse, financial control, isolation, cruelty, etc. (see Power & Control Wheel). The need to control may deepen over time or escalate if a woman seeks independence (e.g. going to school).
Entitlement
Entitlement is the "overarching attitudinal characteristic" of abusive men, a belief in having special rights without responsibilities, justifying unreasonable expectations (e.g., family life must centre on his needs). He will feel the wronged party when his needs are not met and may justify violence as self-defence.
Selfishness & Self-centredness
An expectation of being the centre of attention, having his needs anticipated. May not support or listen to others.
Superiority
Contempt for woman as stupid, unworthy, a s*x object or as a house keeper.
Possessiveness
Seeing a woman and his children as property.
Confusing Love & Abuse
Explaining violence as an expression of his deep love.
Manipulativeness
A tactic of confusion, distortion and lies. May project image of himself as good, and portray the woman as crazy or abusive.
Contradictory Statements & Behaviours
Saying one thing and doing another, such as being publicly critical of men who abuse women.
Externalization of Responsibility
Shifting blame for his actions and their effects to others, especially the woman, or to external factors such as job stress.
Denial, Minimization, & Victim Blaming
Refusing to acknowledge abusive behaviour (e.g. she fell), not acknowledging the seriousness of his behaviour and its effects (e.g., it's just a scratch), blaming the victim (e.g., she drove me to it; she made it up because I have a new girlfriend).
Serial Battering
Some men are abusive in relationship after relationship.
Posted By: DAVID JOHNSON
Thursday, April 19th 2012 at 3:20PM
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