No one can envision him or herself in an abusive relationship. Most people feel it can never happen to them. So when they see the signs they ignore them or make excuses. However domestic violence is too serious an issue not to pay attention to the signs.
One of the first signs that your partner may be abusive is if he or she wants to alienate you from your family and friends. An abusive partner wants to know that you have no one to turn to for help when the abuse starts and alienating you from the people you care about is the first step in achieving that go. Watch out for this sign!