Physical & Emotional Abuse Support Group
Abuse is a general term for the treatment of someone that causes some kind of harm (to the abused person, to the abusers themselves, or to someone else) that is unlawful or wrongful. No one deserves abuse, period. Abuse can be emotional, physical, or sexual.
I've been described as timid, weak, and soft. In some ways I see how these descriptors are true. I am frequently passive and avoid conflict because I usually capitulate. My parents wer very domineering, to the point of abusiveness, and I was sexually molested by a babysitter for a 2-4 year period during my elementary years. Are the personality traits I described typical in males who have had experieinces I have?
The behavior patterns you describe are consistent (in both men and women) with abuse and trauma early in life.
Healing and recovery are possible.
I am so sorry you've had tough experiences Jim but hold your head up high in the knowledge that you chose the highway....apparently the abused either go one of 2 ways....our way...meek, soft etc...or they become abusers themselves...I know which I'd rather be, don't you?!
And you know what they say...the meek shall inherit the earth....
take good care of yourself anf thanks for a great post.
First, I'm a survivor. My father was abused in his family of origin and then again, in fifty years married to my mother who abused everyone in her family.
Second, I have a masters degree in family systems therapy (no coincidence, here).
Third, I work with both men and women who've survied abuse and trauma and are working toward healing, recovery and growth.