WARNING SIGNS OF A CONTROLLING HUSBAND - Candice Hughes

Marrying a controlling man can happen to anyone. Perhaps the warning signs weren't present until later in a relationship or maybe you didn't realize his jealousy and intense financial management were warning signs. No matter what your situation, knowing whether your husband is behaving in ways that are controlling or abusive can help you take control of your relationship and life. Health website Helpguide says that if you believe your husband is controlling or abusive, you should contact someone you trust---such as a counsellor  a domestic violence shelter, a family member or friend---for help.

Jealousy and Monitoring

A controlling husband will often become jealous and will monitor your behaviors, making sure you are always where you say you are and doing what you say you are doing, according to health website Helpguide. A husband who makes you account for every single action you take and dollar you spend is likely a controlling one who may be emotionally or psychologically abusing you.

Isolation

If you feel that your husband is keeping you from family, friends or experiencing events outside of the home, your husband is probably controlling. A partner may, according to the Red Flag Campaign, put down your relatives and friends, hoping to keep your relationships at bay. He may even call them names and seem angry with them. Your husband may also try to make sure you are spending time with "acceptable" people and he may try to control where you go. Physical abuse can also serve as a means to isolate a partner, according to Michigan State University. Bruises and injuries that are obvious to onlookers can keep the abused at home to avoid questions or embarrassment.

Financial Control

Taking charge of finances is a subtle form of abuse a controlling husband may use to keep you in check, according to the Helpguide. While a husband managing the bills is common and normal, an abusive husband may attempt to withhold money from you and will demand records of every dollar you spend. The Helpguide says that a controlling husband may even keep you from purchasing basic needs like clothes and medications. Even more abusive husbands will take action against you that affects your job performance or standing at your job, give you an allowance, not allow you to choose your career or will take your money from you.

Violence and Threats

Controlling husbands will use violence or threats to maintain a sense of power. The Helpguide says that this could take the form of threatening injury, pain or even murder. He may also threaten to take your children from you, threaten to commit suicide to manipulate you, destroy your property or have a temper that frightens you. Violence is not only a sign of a controlling husband but is also abuse. Forced sexual encounters are also examples of violence and a controlling husband. The Red Flag Campaign says that forcing you to engage in sexual activities, especially when you don't want to, is a sign of control and abuse.