Minimizing Abuse
by Teresia Smith
“There is no justification for abuse by a partner, but it’s also hard to admit you’re a victim” (Amanda Kippert). Many intimate partner abuse survivors have a hard time accepting that their partner’s behaviors are abusive. There is a part of them that wants to excuse behaviors and even blame themselves. Until you are out of the relationship and can look back with clarity, you may not truly understand the abuse you experienced.