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Relationships

Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you need help urgently or expert advice, please see our domestic violence webguide and/or relationships webguide. Many Mumsnetters experiencing domestic abuse have found this thread helpful: Listen up, everybody

He called me a bully

9 replies

Inthebluesky · 18/08/2020 23:55

My husband called me a bully recently during a row.
We are going through a difficult time and it has been like this for a few years. I am thinking of leaving.
It's all such a long story and I've been on Mumsnet before about it but I will try to be brief.
He has a temper and moods
He has also has crossed boundaries with other women but not full affairs.
Anyway, him calling me a bully really hurt. It isn't a one off as he often says really hurtful things in rows and swears and shouts.
Usually, he later apologises and says he won't do it again but he always does.
And he always presents a case and downplays everything. Yes, all the usual stuff!
So now when I mention how he called me a bully he says "what was the context?" And "what did I say to him just before it?"
I was asking if he could promise not to contact the woman in a work capacity - (it's difficult to explain but he didn't really need to contact her but he wouldn't commit to an answer as usual.)
I was looking for reassurance and loyalty.
He says I force him to say things and called me a bully!
He always throws me and seems to outwit me.
I can't answer and tie myself in knots trying to explain.
Then he says it's not that bad to be called a bully!
This is just an example of what he is like in many conversations.
I am mentally and emotionally exhausted by it all. He is very clever and likes to disagree with everything and question and doubt everything.
I have actually often felt bullied by and scared of him but have only told him this very recently after years!
He still insists that the context is relevant but I see that as blaming me for his behaviour!
Please tell me he's not right to say this?
Today, I feel so utterly depressed.

OP posts:
chickenyhead · 19/08/2020 00:00

So you have called him it recently and now he is projecting that on to you?

OP I have to be honest, your post isn't the best. It could be interpreted that you are a jealous harridan who nags him. But it could also read as you having genuine cause for concern and him gas lighting you.

I don't know which. Sorry.

Have previous relationships been this way?

Inthebluesky · 19/08/2020 00:21

Oh thanks, I feel even worse now!
Sorry if I was unclear.
He has called me names and sworn at me for years!
I have dared to call him a bully maybe once and my heart was racing!
Now do you understand?
He has called me a bully many times.

OP posts:
tenlittlecygnets · 19/08/2020 00:25

He sounds abusive and life with him sounds Exhausting. I think if I were you I’d be making plans to move out. Do you have children? Can you afford to move out and rent a flat? It might be worth contacting women’s aid or local solicitor to see what your options are. Wishing you the best of luck. Hugs.

allyjay · 19/08/2020 04:18

I think it's quite clear that he's treated you like shit for years and is gaslighting the fuck out of you (which is why you feel so confused and tied in knots with him). I doubt he's going to improve or magically change his behaviour.

Do you want to leave him? Are you in a position to leave him? I wouldn't want to waste my life on this bully

hellsbellsmelons · 19/08/2020 05:15

Why are you still with him?
What plans do you need in place to get out?
Do you have anywhere you can go for a few days?
Why are you putting up with this?
Grey rock technique
Stop engaging with him.
Detach and get out!!!!

Catsup · 19/08/2020 05:31

It sounds exhausting! If it's not working for you then you fully have the right to leave. You don't have to defend or state why you're leaving. You're an adult and if you're unhappy then that's not his call to make. You don't have to provide a list of reasons you want to end the relationship. You just have to state you don't want to be in it anymore.

Suzi888 · 19/08/2020 05:45

You sound so unhappy and exhausted, wouldn’t you both be happier apart? There seems to be no trust or love here. What do each of you get from this relationship?Confused

StartingAgainat31 · 19/08/2020 06:35

Oh OP you are not a nag. Follow what your gut is saying. And it is telling you things are wrong. I have been where you are. The confusion, the being tied in knots and feeling like you have no idea of right or wrong, or who is to blame. I now call it 'the fog'. I was totally exhausted by the whole thing and utterly miserable.

My stbx quite often told me i was abusive. Accused me of being coercive. Basically all the horrid things he did. He knew it before i did thats for sure. It is a common tactic and it leaves the victim utterly confused, bewildered and wrong footed, the perfect victim.

He is gaslighting you as others have said. It is dangerous and powerful and utterly disarming.

Inthebluesky · 19/08/2020 12:48

Thanks everyone and I know I can't carry on with this much longer.
I'm not very good at the leaving part but am working on it.

OP posts:
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