Verbal abuse is a form of domestic violence that often goes unnoticed by others. It may stay hidden behind closed doors, causing victims to develop feelings of low self-worth and fear for their safety.
Verbal threats often lead to physical violence. Coercion, blame, and other forms of abuse rob victims of their freedom and self-esteem. They isolate victims away from their loved ones.
Understanding the role of verbal abuse in domestic violence helps you get the legal and personal support you need to leave a dangerous situation.
Verbal Abuse in Relationships
Domestic abuse is rooted in attempts to control another human being through physical or psychological force.
Most people think of physical acts of violence when addressing domestic abuse. But the verbal abuse that occurs in a home can have severe and lasting impacts on victims, children, and other family members.
Verbal abuse attacks your mental and emotional wellbeing. It leads to feelings of self-doubt, shame, and fear.
Victims may blame themselves when they’re convinced that they’ve caused the abuser to become violent. Family members who do recognize the abuse may wonder why victims just don’t leave.
Recognizing Different Forms of Verbal Abuse
Common examples of verbal abuse include criticism, insults, shaming, and threats of physical harm to victims or their loved ones.
Acts of coercion create fear and cause victims to comply with their abusers’ demands. It’s a major factor in cases involving sexual abuse, financial control, and social isolation.
Abusers may blame victims for issues related to the home or even their own emotional upset. Blame manipulates the thoughts and feelings of others, and victims find it difficult to seek the help they need to escape.
Physical violence may not follow verbal threats. But it can instill fear in victims, preventing them from speaking out against their abusers or confiding in their loved ones.
Threats can include hitting or breaking personal items in the home and show the abuser’s ability to cause physical harm.
Physical restraint may also be an indication of potential violence even when no injuries are caused.
One partner’s happiness, personal achievements, or professional success can trigger verbal abuse from the other.
Protecting Yourself From Verbal Abuse and Domestic Violence
There are many resources you can use to remove yourself from an abusive relationship. Having the legal resources you need protects you and your family’s wellbeing.
By fighting back against domestic violence, you can get the emotional and financial support needed to move forward and reclaim your independence and safety.
Many cases of domestic abuse occur behind closed doors, as abusers often hold back from lashing out at their partners in public. But those who are close to the victim may see some of the signs.
Consulting with an attorney provides you with a third-party who understands the laws related to domestic violence and verbal abuse.
Working with a family law attorney skilled in domestic violence cases helps you gather the evidence you need for your family law case. You’ll get the support and protection you need to create a safer future for you and your family.