What are the Effects of Verbal Abuse?
- In a verbally abusive relationship, the partner’s need to understand and to be understood is not met. The abuser holds the focus of attention.
- A belief that the abusive partner is rational and that an understanding can be reached keeps the relationship going.
- The victim gradually loses self-esteem and confidence without realizing it.
- Victims of verbal abuse generally are aware of their feelings. However, they believe what their partner tells them and often they do not trust their own feelings.
- The abuser defines the victim’s reality and feelings about herself.
- The effects of verbal abuse are primarily qualitative. The intensity of anguish the victim suffers determines the extent of the injury.
