Threatening and repeatedly criticizing is mental abuse. Of course, a dispute can always arise between individuals in a relationship and sometimes it is difficult to figure out what is mental abuse. It is always an abuse when there is a power imbalance, for example, due to age, physical strength and experience and the individual who has the upper hand uses it to get their way.  

On top of other abuse, LBGTQ+ people are at risk of their queerness being exploited to abuse them.

Hans was in an abusive relationship for four years. At first, the relationship was good but then his boyfriend started to criticise Hans constantly. His boyfriend controlled their finances, household and Hans’s relationship with his family and friends. There was constant pressure on thousand little points.

Þekktu Rauðu Ljósin - Hans segir sína sögu #rauduljosin

Bjarkarhlíð provides support and counseling to individuals who have experienced abuse. The service is made to meet your needs.

Samtökin '78 is the National Queer Organisation of Iceland. They offer counseling for queer people who have experienced abuse in close relationships.

Haukur recently started a relationship with Kalli who is considerably older than him. The relationship is new and exciting and Haukur is ...

Haukur recently started a relationship with Kalli who is considerably older than him. The relationship is new and exciting and Haukur is very much in love. Kalli is Haukur’s first boyfriend but Haukur is not yet ready to come out to his family.

Kalli has said to Haukur a few times that he does not look gay enough. Haukur is hurt by this but thinks that maybe Kalli is right. After a few months, they argue more often. Kalli goes on about how Haukur is not a real gay man since he has been in a relationship with a girl before and threatens to “out” Haukur.

Haukur

Is this abuse? Pick your answer: