One of the most disturbing aspects of abuse is that some people seem energised by the pain they cause. While not every abuser consciously enjoys another person’s suffering, many thrive on the power, control, fear, and emotional turmoil they create. The distress of others becomes evidence that their tactics are working. For victims, this can be difficult to comprehend because empathetic people naturally recoil from causing harm. Abusers often operate differently. Where most people feel guilt when they hurt someone, an abuser may feel justified, empowered, or even rewarded. This is why abuse can be so destructive—it feeds a need within the abuser while steadily eroding the wellbeing of the victim.