ABUSE

Abuse is the improper treatment of a person. It's a pattern of behavior used by an abuser to exert power and control over a victim. Abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and it often occurs within relationships where there's an imbalance of power, such as in families or intimate partnerships. Healing from abuse is a complex process, but with professional help and a strong support system, it is possible for survivors to reclaim their lives and begin to heal.

 

Abuse manifests in various forms, and often several types are present in a single abusive situation. These can include:

• Physical Abuse: Any intentional act that causes physical harm, such as hitting, kicking, biting, or throwing objects.

• Emotional/Psychological Abuse: Behaviors that cause emotional pain and diminish a person's self-worth. This can involve name-calling, gaslighting, intimidation, and isolation from friends and family.

• Sexual Abuse: Any sexual act without consent, including sexual assault, unwanted touching, or forcing someone to engage in sexual acts against their will.

• Financial Abuse: Controlling a person's financial resources, preventing them from working, or stealing money, which makes them financially dependent and unable to leave the relationship.

• Neglect: A failure to provide basic necessities like food, clothing, shelter, or medical care, often seen in cases involving children or vulnerable adults.

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