Expert: Azure - 5/27/2006

Question
I have a friend in what I think is an abusive relationship.  She is not allowed to do very many things on her own and most of her time she is checked up on.  She is followed called and always questioned about her whereabouts.  When she answers she ends up in an arguement.  She says she wants to leave, but I don't think she really means it.  Is there a way I can tell?  She has been in this relationship for 14 years and has three daughters.  She is afraid of losing her daughters because he has threatened to take them if she leaves. Is there any hope for her?

Answer
there's always hope, but nothing will change until she recognizes the obstacles stopping her from going, removes them, and leaves; as a friend you can look to identify each roadblock and suggest ways to deal with it; for example, two good places to start would be strongly suggesting she see a lawyer and a counselor..