What Constitutes a Verbally Abusive Husband?

Looking for peace while dealing with a verbally abusive husband.

Abuse and domestic violence take many forms. Physical battery is a common feature in abusive relationships. Verbal abuse by a husband is also a form of violence against a wife. There are some established guidelines for identifying a verbally abusive husband.

History

Historically, domestic violence laws centered on physical abuse. In more recent times, these laws include mental and emotional abuse that can be the result of verbal attacks by a husband.

Identification

A verbally abusive husband is defined as an individual who consistently engages in a pattern and practice of verbally attacking his spouse. In most instances, an isolated instance of verbal hostility does not rise to the level of verbal abuse.

Potential

Verbal abuse often progresses to physical abuse, according to Patricia Evans, writing in the book, "The Verbally Abusive Relationship." Taking action to end verbal abusive helps prevent escalation.

Misconceptions

The words used by a verbally abusive husband can seriously affect a wife's mental and emotional well-being.

Prevention/Solution

The best course to prevent verbal abuse is for a husband to engage in intensive therapy, including anger control, according to "The Verbally Abusive Relationship."

References

• "The Verbally Abusive Relationship: How to Recognize it and How to Respond;" Patricia Evans, 2003
• Verbal Abuse and Domestic Violence
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Women's Health, Emotional and Verbal Abuse

Resources

• University of Massachusetts, Domestic Violence