Abuse is a pattern of behavior in which one person intentionally harms, controls, or manipulates another. It can take many forms—physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or even financial—and it often involves a misuse of power or trust. The defining feature of abuse is that it causes harm or suffering to the victim, whether immediately or over time.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of common types of abuse:
- Physical Abuse – Inflicting bodily harm, such as hitting, slapping, pushing, choking, or using objects to cause injury.
- Emotional/Psychological Abuse – Undermining a person’s sense of self-worth through insults, humiliation, intimidation, gaslighting, or constant criticism.
- Verbal Abuse – Using words to belittle, threaten, or control someone, often overlapping with emotional abuse.
- Sexual Abuse – Any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior, including assault, exploitation, or coercion.
- Financial/Economic Abuse – Controlling or limiting access to money or resources to manipulate or trap someone.
- Neglect – Failing to provide basic needs, care, or emotional support, often in caregiving relationships.
Abuse isn’t always dramatic or obvious. Sometimes it’s subtle—like persistent manipulation, threats, or gaslighting—and it often escalates over time. The key is that it is repeated, harmful, and intended to control, dominate, or degrade the other person.
