Lacrosse Player Killed by Boyfriend: How to Prevent an Abusive Relationship

With the recent killing of lacrosse player Yeardley Love by her boyfriend, George Huguely, it brings up the issue of abusive relationships. Most girls these days jump into relationships with guys before they really get to know them, only to find out later that they've gotten themselves into a mess. What should we teach our daughters about relationships?

Take it slow.

Don't rush into a relationship. If you are interested in someone, go out in a group. Get to know him at a far first.

Check for anger issues.

Observe if this person is quick to fly off the handle at little issues. If they show a temper more than normal, stay clear!

Make sure you can trust them.

Does this person have trust issues? A person that is abusive doesn't trust or respect the person they are with.

Don't jump into a sexual relationship.

It is more common these days for young women to get into a sexual relationship with men before they really know much about them. A physical relationship can spell danger. A possessive person thinks they own you. Carrying it as far as becoming physical, only gives the man an "ownership" in their eyes.

How to tell if you are in an abusive relationship.

There a many signs that you are in an abusive relationship. Here are some important signs.

- Jealous or possessive towards you.

-Tries to control you.

- Tries to isolate you from family and friends.

- He is violent.

- Blames you for his temper.

- Has a history of bad relationships.

What to do if you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship? Take things seriously. If your partner is threatening you, get out of the relationship as quickly as possible. If your daughter is the one being abused, let her know that you are there to help and seek the proper help. Maybe with all the recent violent relationship tragedies in the news, authorities will take matters more seriously.