How to Recognize Verbal Abuse

Stop verbal abuse.

Verbal abuse appears in various forms. It can be subtle or obvious, and frequent or intermittent. No matter how it manifests itself, it's disrespectful toward the recipient and can drive a wedge between partners. Verbal abuse is not love regardless of what it's labeled by the perpetrator. It's easy to deny that your words are verbally abusive. However, recognizing the signs and stopping the abuse may heal a deteriorating relationship.

Instructions

1. Give up the need to be right every time. There are disagreements in every relationship. Therefore, it's important that you are not so stubborn that you can't ever admit to being wrong. Not recognizing fault is a sign that you may be verbally abusive. No one is right all of the time.

2. Don't correct your partner in public or around other people. This belittles her opinion and makes her feel inadequate. This type of behavior displayed openly appears obnoxious to the people around you. Speaking in a condescending fashion to anyone may be a form of abuse and should be examined.

3. Finish your own sentences, and allow your partner to finish his. One spouse who constantly speaks for the other, in his presence, is attempting to control and intimidate. If he does not say exactly what she wants him to say, an argument ensues. If she demands that her spouse be a "yes man," disrespect and verbal abuse may become the theme of the relationship.

Resources

• The Verbal Abuse Site