OneLove Foundation Provides Vital Information on Signs of Abusive Relationships

What appears to be a loving relationship can sometimes evolve into isolation, alienation and sadly violence. That's the subject of a disturbing film called "Escalation" that was viewed at the Scarsdale Library on Wednesday May 31. The movie and discussion that followed was hosted by the Teen Center who invited Sharon Robinson, founder of the OneLove Organization to lead the group in an exercise of identifying unhealthy relationships and helping victims safely extricate themselves from dangerous situations.

What's most confusing about these relationships is that abusers are often very charming and attractive and mask their need to dominate and control. They ensnare their victims in exclusive relationships, cutting them off from friends and then making impossible demands. Many of the victims are teens or in their early 20's and are too naïve to recognize the signs of abuse.

The film, "Escalation" depicts a relationship between two attractive college students. Initial infatuation evolves into a demanding, dangerous situation with tragic consequences after the girl breaks up with her boyfriend.

State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin has worked on many NYS laws to prevent domestic violence and she explained that the genesis for the legislation was the murder of heiress Anne Scripps Douglas who was killed by her husband in Bronxville in 1994 when she was only 44. The authorities refused to evict the man from their home after Scripps-Douglas went to them for help. Since that time Paulin has sponsored many bills to empower police and judges to protect victims of abuse.

In the weeks following a break-up, victims are especially vulnerable and should have protection and a getaway plan to safeguard themselves from abuse and violence.

Learn more about the signs of abusive relationships and what you can do to prevent them here: