PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Recently, abusive relationships and those entrenched in them have been dominating the news. Morgan McCaffery and Gabby Petito have unfortunately become familiar names to us because of these circumstances.
A psychologist who specializes in trauma spoke to KYW Newsradio about the recent cases, and what people need to know if they or someone they love are in the same situation.
"Unfortunately, we are definitely living in a time when toxic relationships are on the rise and these news stories often times really illuminate the need for the conversations, said Dr. Ramona Roberts, supervisor of trauma services and staff psychologist at Caron Treatment Center.
Roberts said her role is to support that individual and educate the people around them on how to help. Often, she said, they see and recognize the signs of abuse, however, they're not quite sure how to effectively assist.
"There is a lot of pressure placed on that individual to leave the relationship, but it is really important to ask for help," she said.
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"Therapists and centers trained in domestic violence often offer free resources to support a safe and confidential exit strategy, because the most dangerous period in abusive relationships is when the person being abused leaves."
Roberts said doing so without the help of a therapist, or without consulting a center that deals with domestic violence can be dangerous, because it leaves the perpetrator with nothing to lose.
"We have seen it result in countless cases of tragedy. This is why this is so important that family members and friends don't rush to pressure their loved one to leave without getting the appropriate assistance and resources in place for them," she advised.
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What advice does Roberts have for parents of young adults who find themselves in abusive relationships?
"Patience," she said. "I probably don't even have words for how challenging that is. You need to have patience with your loved one in terms of them wrapping their head around where they are where they need to go. How to make sense of all of this. They are trying to make sense of how I even found myself in this place."
The good news, Roberts said, is that with help, people can be informed and empowered, and have healthy relationships moving forward. She also reminded family and friends not to feel guilty about the circumstances their loved one is in.