Verbal abuse is a form of psychological or emotional abuse characterized by the use of language to demean, belittle, or control another person. It encompasses various behaviors such as name-calling, insults, threats, and manipulation, often leading to significant emotional distress for the victim. Unlike physical abuse, verbal abuse does not leave visible scars but can have profound long-term effects on mental health, including depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem127.
Reasons for Verbal Abuse
People engage in verbal abuse for several reasons:
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Control and Power: Abusers often seek to establish dominance over their victims. This power dynamic allows them to manipulate and intimidate others to fulfill their own desires without regard for the victim's well-being59.
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Insecurity: Many abusers project their insecurities onto others, using verbal attacks as a way to feel superior or to mask their own vulnerabilities29.
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Learned Behavior: Individuals who have experienced verbal abuse in their own lives may replicate these patterns in their relationships, normalizing harmful communication styles26.
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