The Devastating Impacts of
Verbal Abuse

"Verbal abuse" simply means assaulting somebody using abusive or intimidating language. It has become a common phenomenon in many relationships in general, and marriages in particular.

Instances of verbal, and other, abuse are on the rise because of our hectic modern lifestyle, the enormous work pressures we face, frustration, and family and social tensions. Sometimes people in an authoritative position verbally abuse others intentionally, just to satisfy their ego and impose their superiority.

Verbal abuse can leave a large scar on one's psyche, that may last for years. It might make you doubt your potentiality and lose faith in yourself. Such abuse from someone near or dear makes an even greater impact. People who are subject to this type of abuse for a long time eventually begin to behave erratically and many develop mental conditions.

Victims of verbal abuse also face social humiliation. At times, they become reactionary. The devastating thing about this abuse is that it creates tension at many levels. Both, the abuser and the victim bear the brunt, and thus lead troubled lives.

First you must understand that verbal abuse cannot solve any problem - in fact, it aggravates them. When dealing with others, treat them with respect and dignity. Always! Never use any words that impugn the dignity of the any individual.

If you are subject to verbal, or any other kind of abuse from a relative or anyone else, you must first talk to the abuser about it. You must discuss the behaviors, and try to find out why they are abusing you. Try to correct any fault on your part, but don't take responsibility for other people actions.

Sometimes people use words harshly, without appreciating how they can hurt others. If you bring this to the attention of the abuser, maybe he will become more conscious of his behavior and not abuse you further or he will know where your soft spot is and go after it more. If you tell a person what he is doing is hurting you, and the person increases that behavior that is a sign of an abuser.

If a person in authoritative position abuses you verbally, you must talk to them and ask them about the reason for using such harsh words. However, if a person abuses you intentionally for a long time, you need to move away from that relationship for self protection.

Verbal abuse in families is continually on the rise. If there is are differences between you and your partner, try to sort them out mutually. And be careful to never abuse your children verbally, as it will inevitably have adverse effects on their tender young minds.