The media has been awash with gut-wrenching stories of lovers engaging in the killing of one another.
Most of these shocking incidences would be reduced or prevented if the victims had been able to discern the signs that their partners would kill them.
They have become more frequent that we are at risk of growing numb to them and seeing them as a normal part of life.
This shouldn't be.
So what are some of the signs to look out in a partner who would be a potential killer.
In his book 'Till Death Do Us Part: Love, Marriage and the Mind of the Killer Spouse', Dr Ludwig cites and explains the signs.
1. Controls you in everything you do. He or she does not give you space to be yourself. Everything you do has to be subject to their approval.
2. Are incapable of controlling their rage. Anything you do that they don't agree with triggers their rage. They get off the handle at the slightest provocation.
3. They are incapable of remorse. When they hurt you, they won't say sorry.
4. They have scant regard for human life. If you are in a relationship with a partner who has ever killed before, they could kill you.
5. Suffer from an intense sense of victimhood. They feel that they have been wronged.