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Abuse Quote by Lundy Bancroft

“The abusive man’s high entitlement leads him to have unfair and unreasonable expectations, so that the relationship revolves around his demands. His attitude is: “You owe me.” For each ounce he gives, he wants a pound in return. He wants his partner to devote herself fully to catering to him, even…” quote by Lundy Bancroft
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““The abusive man’s high entitlement leads him to have unfair and unreasonable expectations, so that the relationship revolves around his demands. His attitude is: “You owe me.” For each ounce he gives, he wants a pound in return. He wants his partner to devote herself fully to catering to him, even if it means that her own needs—or her children’s—get neglected. You can pour all your energy into keeping your partner content, but if he has this mind-set, he’ll never be satisfied for long. And he will keep feeling that you are controlling him, because he doesn’t believe that you should set any limits on his conduct or insist that he meet his responsibilities.””

Lundy Bancroft

About This Quote

An abusive partner demands disproportionate devotion, treating love as a transaction and refusing limits, leading to chronic dissatisfaction.

In simple terms: Abusive partners expect too much and never feel satisfied.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and set healthy boundaries.

Themes

abuse entitlement relationships boundaries power dynamics

Mood

frustrated determined hopeful

Type

advice psychology relationship

When to use this quote

  • dating
  • marriage
  • co‑habitation
  • family life

Key Concepts

codependency transactional love control self‑worth

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you assert limits without feeling guilty?
  • What signs indicate a relationship is transactional?
A Different Perspective

The abuser may claim love while exploiting, making change emotionally complex.

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