Print 🖨 PDF 📄 eBook 📱The subtle manipulations in relationships were a complete mystery to me; I thought it was in fact just a part of normal life. I didn’t know what true relationships were like as I had always experienced those that were less than true. For example, I had a boyfriend who was often on the edge of being physically abusive so I wore clothes he liked just to keep him happy because if he was upset the threat of violence was present. I walked away from this relationship but later chose one where I was controlled emotionally. Looking back I can see clearly how the sulks and the brick wall which appeared around my partner whenever I planned to visit family for a few days were his attempt to keep me at home. I would pander to this control by preparing all his meals for the period I would be away. It never occurred to me at the time to discuss with him the manipulative behaviour within our relationship that we were both party to, and to seek another way together. Alcohol played a part too and he would be more demanding when he chose to drink. ...