@GodIs,
Quote: I know this may sound crazy, but a man really needs a woman to stand up for herself in order for him to respect her.
Sorry, but in context, this is so singular (a single aspect of a larger system) as to be greatly misleading.
Every person deserves to talked to with respect. People with high self esteem, and compassion, already do this with everyone. They don't
need others to stand up for themselves to show normal respect to them...as you appear to claim.
But from the 'normal amount of respect' we give to each other person - the amount of respect a person feels towards another can rise as that other shows attributes worthy of greater respect.
Just one of these attributes is standing up for yourself.
Quote:This is something that he really needs and wants.
In the context of the OP's post, this statement is loaded:
- it could be downright false. He may not want, or feel the need for someone to stand up to him
- it could be somewhat true.
- it isn't the reason for his extreme emotional abuse, although it could be read as you presenting it that way
- it could lead to an increase in attacks should she start standing up for herself (normally it does in this sort of situation, as the domineering one tries to bully their way back to dominance)
Quote:You are lovely! I know it's hard to live in the environment that you are in, but you must find a way to ignore your husband and encourage yourself. Tell your kids that you love them everyday, but always respond to your husband in a positive way.
I recall reading a book detailing the early days of police negotiators. In one case, the police called the local reverend in to help talk to a suicidal parishoner that was holding a shotgun to his own head.
The police negotiator said "son, put the gun down'
The reverend said 'go on son, do it.'
The man pulled the trigger.