In response to Kim Felts' opinion column on March 17, I would like to congratulate her and the Collegian for bringing this important issue of women's health into view. Most people don't realize that abusive relationships between unmarried couples exist unless they have been involved in, or an observer of one.

I thought that people would be interested in knowing some more of the tactics some men use to dominate their partners and why. Using the power and control wheel (available at the Centre County Women's Shelter), I can report that there are eight types of abuse; used alone or in groups, they are dangerous weapons against women. In abusive relationships men not only physically abuse their partners, but they may also isolate them, intimidate them, socially control them, threaten them, use them, ridicule them and even sexually abuse them.

Men are socially programmed to be the dominant sex, however it depends on the personal values and morals of individual men to establish whether or not he will be an abuser or not. Some men like to be in control of their relationships (this is not the problem), it is only when he uses force or any of the aforementioned tactics to control a woman that he becomes a perpetrator.

Women, you must know your options! If you are involved in an abusive relationship -- you need help! Utilize the support programs offered right here on campus, and don't forget where the victim/witness advocate is located, 12 Grange. Having known first-hand abuse from my ex-boyfriend, I urge anyone being victimized to take the first step and set yourself free.