Online "Relationship Violence" Questionnaire

Instructions: Romantic relationships rarely start off with violence. How then does it occur? How can a relationship start off so good and then go so very bad? While the psychology of domestic violence is complex and multi-faceted, relationships are not absolute destiny. People make choices, sometimes good ones and sometimes not. Part of becoming informed about relationship violence is being aware of the signs of potential abuse long before the damage is actually done. Test your knowledge of violence warning signs at: http://www.angelfire.com/ar/LRfuzz1/dvquestionnaire.html

This is one test where you don't want a high score. If many of this site's warning signs apply to you, or to someone you know, it's imperative that you take action. Your school's counseling center has trained professionals who will talk with you confidentially, and help you avoid being hurt by a romantic partner. Relationship violence is no laughing matter, nor is it something you should ever overlook. If you are in danger, or you know someone who is, you should seek help.

In summary: Most people don't take a communications course thinking they'll end up dealing with heavy topics like sexual harassment or relationship violence, but we all know far too well that these unhappy things exist. Dealing with the "dark side" of communication is important, because it helps you understand that significant power imbalances are not a part of healthy relationships.

Also, note that the knowledge we have about the warning signs in relationship violence has come from other people's unfortunate experience. Use what you now know to help you from ever being subtly pulled into a red-light relationship. Recognize that learning about the "dark side" is the most important step in helping you avoid it.