What are the warning signs of an abusive spouse or partner?

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, there are common predictors for persons most likely to practice violent behavior against a partner. They include:

• a person who has had a violent family life
• uses violence or force to "solve" problems
• uses alcohol or other drugs
• has strong traditional ideas about the role of husband and wife
• is jealous of a spouse or partner's other relationships
• has access to weapons
• expects a spouse or partner to follow orders or advice
• experiences mood swings with extreme highs and lows
• treats a spouse or partner roughly

In a 1998 study of 2,245 children and teenagers, it was found that recent exposure to violence in the home was a significant factor in predicting a child's violent behavior.