Total agreement. It's what they do, not just to the abuser but people around them. In my experience aome abusers put on quite the 'show' publically to cultivate themselves a following. They are extremely charismatic surrounding themselves with people who fall for the show and think they are great - a 'diva' personality if you will. Their 'friends' would never question he/she have an alternate persona of abusive behaviour. In my case that was one of the things that made it so hard to leave. He would be so nice to me at times that made me think I was some kind of bad person for questioning his behaviour then flip over into a mean, self-centered, abusive monster. Yes, it was hard to find supporters when I did leave, but I found it afterall and was able to do so.

Are you in danger emotionally or physically? Are you able to find support where you are? Do you need help?