Vikki Mae’s story began when she was 17, feeling special and loved by a man who was the first to take a genuine interest in her. “He made me feel special and wanted and loved, so long as I did exactly things the way he wanted.” Initially, he lavished her with attention and gifts, making her feel valued and adored. However, this affection came with the condition that she must conform to his every demand, which she initially did without much resistance.
Over time, Vikki’s partner’s controlling behavior escalated to emotional, verbal, psychological, and financial abuse. He dictated how things should be done, isolated her from friends and family, and controlled her ability to work and manage money. Vikki explained how he even controlled their household and finances, ensuring she had to beg for money and was not allowed to work outside their family business. This progression from seemingly benign control to various forms of abuse highlights a pattern where many women, like Vikki, don’t even realize at first that they are being abused.
Vikki’s story underscores a crucial message: many women remain in abusive relationships because they don’t recognize the abuse or feel trapped by financial and emotional dependencies. Her turning point came when she attended a conference and heard other women’s stories of non-physical abuse. She realized the manipulation she had endured and found the courage to leave, stating, “Once I realized it was abuse, I had to do something about it.” Her journey illustrates the importance of self-awareness and support in breaking free from abuse and reclaiming one’s life.
Featured image: Vicki Mae. Source: YouTube Screenshot / National Domestic Abuse Hotline.
