Threats of physical harm:
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“If you leave me, I will hurt you.”
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“I’ll kill you if you ever try to leave me.”
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“Don’t make me do something you will regret.”
Threats against others:
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“I’ll kill myself if you leave.”
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“If you leave, I’ll hurt the kids (or the pet).”
Threats involving Children:
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“I’ll take the kids and you will never see them again.”:
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“No one will ever give you custody. You are a terrible parent.”
Threats of Shame or Exposure:
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“I’ll post those pictures online.”
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“I’ll ruin your reputation.”
Threats of Legal or Immigration Trouble:
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“I’ll call the police and tell them you hit me.”
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‘You will be deported if you don’t do what I say.”
Financial Threats:
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“You can’t survive without me. You do not have any money.”
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“I’ll destroy your credit.”
Threats of Retaliation or Stalking:
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“You can’t hide from me. I will always find you.”
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“Even if you go to a shelter, I will get to you.”
When someone is experiencing abuse from a partner, threats can become an all-too-common part of daily life—so common, in fact, that they may not seem serious. Survivors may downplay or dismiss these threats, often as a way to cope or stay hopeful. But abusive threats are a warning sign that should never be ignored—they can escalate quickly and dangerously.
In this important article from DomesticShelters.org, learn why it’s critical to take threats seriously.
If you are being threatened I encourage you to call. HAVEN advocates are available to help you or a loved one assess danger and create a personalized safety plan.
Thanks for reading!
