Being an "Empath ".  People who grew up in incredibly abusive households, learn to be hyper aware of Incredibly subtle body language and speech, as a coping mechanism from violently unpredictable Relationships.  They are often very in tune with the emotions of those around them.

They stand up loudly for people who are being treated unfairly. .

An uncanny ability to read past the literal words someone says and hear what they're really saying, even if they didn't want to tell you that.

They instantly click with other people who have been through a lot of s**t before even realising the other person has been through a lot of s**t

No seriously it's like a sensor.

Can't take a compliment because to them thats the start of manipulation. Also don't like gifts becuase they come with strings usually and they aren't prepared to have something else come back at them because they "accepted" the gifts.

Also likely fiercely independant, although you get the ones that go the other way and are too scared to do *anything* alone.

They’re angry, and resentful. I’m going against the grain here by saying this but as someone who has experienced child abuse and been blamed for it and been misunderstood my entire life, yeah, I’m angry and resentful.

Sorry.

Update: thanks everyone. To those who are going through similar, I feel you, a lot.

They are empathetic, kind and generous- because they get it.

They appreciate the tiniest things around them. They are super empathetic and kind. But they can also flip like a switch if you push too hard.

People pleasing. Apologising too much. Internalised blame. Not being fazed by terrible things and finds very little to be really shocking. A good listener. Lack of boundaries. A loner. Quiet. Avoids people and crowds. Avoids drama. Doesn't really care about gossip, small talk or the mundane stuff. Doesn't have much to do with family.

Sometimes I wish I didn't know these things.

Edit: Thanks for my biggest up vote and response yet people. I don't feel so alone today.
There are good people in this world. Keep fighting and learning every day. ❤️.

We lose it over little things because we aren’t allowed to lose it over big things. Surprisingly reliable during high-stakes chaos but a tiny small thing will send us spiralling for days.

They tend to keep a lot of information about themselves locked up for fear of it being used against them.

Zero tolerance for drama, b******t and toxic behaviour.

They're more likely to just walk away from friendships and relationships at the first sign.

How fast they can flip the switch and not put up with your s**t anymore.

EDIT: WOW! So appreciative of not only the thousands of upvotes but the hundreds of comments as well. I truly believe that having open discussions about things like this are the path to overcoming your difficulties and being successful. I also appreciate the numerous private messages that have been sent. Please know that I either have or plan to respond to every single one of them.