Time Outs
Time Outs are our single most effective tool for stopping abusive behavior
- Stop violent and abusive behaviors before they start
- Build trust with those around you
- Gain a sense of personal control
- Validate yourself by making decisions consistent with your values
- Guarantee that escalation will not lead to hurtful or abusive exchanges
It is vital that you discuss Time Outs with your partner. Before using Time-Outs, share with your partner how and why they work. Together you can review this page or cover the reading in Learning To Live Without Violence (pgs. 4-7).
practice Time Outs
If you can't take a Time Out when you don't need it, you probably won't take a Time Out when you do need it. Practice Time Outs are taken when you are not feeling angry - the point is to practice saying the words and walking away.
Tell your partner:
"This is a Practice Time Out: I am beginning to feel angry and need to take a time out. I will be back in 30 minutes."
Then leave for 30 minutes, return and check in.
