In a world where it feels like everything revolves around a phone, tablet, computer, social media, etc. We have to anticipate that it will be ever present in the realms of a toxic relationship. In the age of the internet, technology is quickly becoming the “weapon of choice” without either partner realizing that it is being used as an abusive tactic.

Technological abuse was seen before the boom of this technological era by having someone destroy or unplug a landline or by cutting off means of communication to those outside of the family. Technology is a large category and type of abuse that is a part of many toxic relationships in this day and age.

We offer in-person couples counseling in Murrieta, CA, in-person marriage counseling in Riverside, CA, and online couples therapy to residents of California.

Technological/Digital abuse can be:

• Sending harassing text messages or emails.

• Using social media accounts without permission in order to access information.

• Uses social media accounts to keep tabs on partners whereabouts.

• Text bombing or sending so many messages or phone calls that it makes one uncomfortable and at all hours of the day.

• Always having the “right” to look through a partner's phone in order to check the text history, call logs, or internet search history.

• Sending threatening text messages, emails, or phone calls.

• Partner gets upset or angry when text messages, emails, or phone calls are not answered immediately or when they deem it appropriate timing.

• Making continuous controlling or threatening phone calls or messages.

• Pressuring partner to take and send sexual photos or videos and may threaten to use those if there is a break up.

• Forbidding someone from having a phone or limiting access to phone or internet.

• Putting “trackers” on cars or anything that belongs to one partner in order to find out where they are without their knowledge.

• Spying on, monitoring, or staking someone through any type of surveillance device.

• Requiring and demanding partner to “share the location.”

• Breaking someone's phone, tablet, computer, etc.

• Demanding to have all the passwords to accounts.

• Taking someone's phone when they are going to call for help.

• Installing cameras (or baby monitors) in and around the house to know what is going on with a partner in order to keep track of or find out what one is doing at all times.

Technological abuse in relationships can have serious and long-lasting effects on both individuals involved. It can create feelings of mistrust, insecurity, and isolation, and can even lead to physical harm if, for example, a partner uses technology to track or monitor their significant other. If left unchecked, technological abuse can cause serious damage to the emotional and psychological well-being of those involved. Seeking help from a couples therapist can be an important step in addressing and healing from technological abuse. A therapist can provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to share their experiences and work through their feelings. They can also help couples to establish healthy communication and boundaries, and work through any underlying issues that may be contributing to the technological abuse.

Please read our other blogs if you think you’re experiencing verbal, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse in your relationship.

• Recognizing different types of abuse in relationships

• How to identify the signs of physical abuse in your marriage

• Signs of emotional or mental abuse in relationships

• Signs of sexual abuse in relationships

It can be hard to recognize the signs of abuse and then take steps to actively stop it especially when it’s with someone you love. You are not alone and we are here for you! We help couples every day deal with situations just like yours. Contact us today or click the button below to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation with our Intake Coordinator.

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We offer online couples counseling in California and in-person marriage counseling services in Riverside, CA and in-person marriage therapy in Murrieta, CA!! It’s so important for you to find the right marriage counselor for you. Learn more about what’s unique about our couples therapists here.