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Self Tests > Relationships > Emotional Abuse Test
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Emotional Abuse Test

20 Questions
3 Minutes

Are you in an emotionally abusive relationship?

Emotional abuse is a pattern of behavior to leverage control over another individual; the perpetrator may use tactics such as deceit, manipulation, threats, fear, control, and isolation. This person is often a romantic partner but may also be a family member, colleague, or anyone else. This test should be taken with one individual in mind. It can be taken multiple times if you’re concerned about multiple relationships.

Using the key below, answer the questions based on how strongly you agree or disagree with the statement.

Disagree
Strongly Disagree
Neutral
Agree
Strongly Agree
1. This person ridicules my words and actions.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
2. This person says things to hurt me out of spite.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
3. This person threatens me physically during arguments.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
4. I feel like I’m constantly walking on eggshells to avoid upsetting this person.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
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5. This person verbally attacks me.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
6. This person supports my relationships with my family and friends.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
7. This person tries to control everything I do.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
8. They try to catch me in inconsistencies to show that I’m lying.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
9. I feel criticized or belittled by this person, even for small things.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
10. This person tells me that no one else would ever want me.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
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11. They force me to do things against my will.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
12. My relationship with this person feels healthy and supportive.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
13. This person frequently checks on me, such as by listening to my phone calls or showing up at my work.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
14. I’m ignored or given the silent treatment when I don’t do what this person wants.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
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15. This person controls my finances and prevents me from having money of my own.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
16. They humiliate me in front of others.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
17. This person gets upset when a household task isn’t done the way they think it should be.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
18. They wouldn’t do something to intentionally hurt me or scare me.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
19. They sometimes throw, hit, kick, or smash things.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
20. This person questions my sanity.
Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree

Who Is This Test For?

This test is for anyone concerned they (or someone they know) may be in an abusive relationship. It’s designed for adults and is not intended to be diagnostic.

We value your privacy - see how we protect the info you provide when you take this test.

How to Get Help

If you think you may be in an emotionally abusive relationship, seek help. You can find a therapist in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.

Sources

Jacobson, N. and Gottman, J. Emotional Abuse Questionnaire (EAQ).

Shepard, M., and Campbell, J. The Abusive Behavior Inventory (ABI).

Vahid, M., et al. Emotional Abuse Questionnaire (EAQ).