What is Verbal Abuse (& How Can I Identify It)?
Verbal Abuse: More Than Just the Words
Verbal abuse isn’t just yelling and name-calling. It’s when someone uses language, intonation, volume, or expression to initiate or perpetuate a power-over dynamic.
Years ago, when I first read Patricia Evans book, The Verbally Abusive Relationship, I could NOT put it down. I highlighted most of the book.
It was validating, shocking, and illuminating to read page after page of what I think I’d always known deep inside, but needed someone to tell me in plain words:
Verbal abuse is more than yelling, making threats, and name-calling.
The Truth About Verbal Abuse
Just like emotional and psychological abuse, verbal abuse can be difficult to identify. In our society, abuse is widely tolerated - unless there’s obvious physical battering and a “perfect” response from the victim, folks just don’t offer belief and validation to victims.
Plus, emotional, psychological, and verbal abuse can cause victims to doubt themselves and feel like they’re exaggerating.
So is it any wonder that many victims of verbal abuse don’t actually know they’re victims of verbal abuse?
Verbal Abuse Can Include:
Name-calling
Yelling and intimidating language
Threats
Criticism (overt and covert)
Jokes at your expense
Disclosing your private information to others without your consent
Telling embarrassing stories about you to others
Constantly reminding you of something you are embarrassed about or ashamed of
Interrupting you
Twisting your words
I’d Love to Help You Here at Holistic Recovery
Here at Holistic Recovery, I’m all about identifying all forms of abuse and finding safe ways to create peace in your life and holistic healing for yourself and your children.
My free support group is a great resource for victims of verbal abuse. It’s a beautiful supportive space where your words are valued as the sacred gift that they are. Register for a coaching session with me, and you get continual free access to our support group. Hope to see you there!