Identifying violence by verbal cues

Identifying violence by verbal cues is an important first step in preventing, deterring and reducing domestic violence. Verbal abuse has the same legal consequences as physical abuse. The same laws apply. This type of abuse takes more than mere words to achieve its devastating results. Verbal abusers are often those closest to the victim as well as those who report them. This makes it very important for everyone to know how to identify domestic violence by verbal cues so that they can intervene before it gets out of control.

It's important for victims and those witnessing abuse to be able to differentiate between harmless jokes and expressions of violence. If the victim believes someone is being abusive, even if the perpetrator is using only humor, she should not allow the abuse to continue. Verbal abuse can turn into verbal and physical abuse in no time if not curbed. Even the tiniest inflections of a negative comment can have devastating consequences. Those who witness domestic violence by verbal cues can help themselves and others by stepping up and reporting the abuse.

When children witness domestic violence they can often be terribly affected and do not know how to react. In situations where children are present, they should be given clear instructions on how to respond to any violence or abuse that they may encounter. A child's instinct is to remain calm and do as the parents ask. If children witness non-verbal abuse they may become very uncomfortable and not understand what is occurring. This could result in the child staying quiet or trying to escape the situation altogether.

Everyone has the right to feel safe and secure in their homes. Unfortunately, that safety and security can disappear rapidly when someone is mistreating or abusing another person. It is essential to be able to recognize and define physical and verbal abuse. If left unchecked, violence can take on a life of its own. With this in mind, it is critical to educate yourself about the different types of abuse so you can be better prepared to respond and protect yourself when and if it occurs.

Non-verbal communication is the most important indicator of abuse. There is a wide range of verbal and non-verbal behaviors that are used to manipulate, coerce and abuse others. For example, there is violence expressed through physical responses such as hitting, pushing and yelling. Yet, there is also gentler, more subtle manipulation such as putting up a show of affection for someone but not really talking with them. Then there is covert violence, which is not as obvious. It includes things like taking meals or sheltering from other issues rather than supporting someone in a violent way.

Once you are aware of the different types of abusive behaviors, you can start to understand how to react and protect yourself when it happens. Being armed with this information will empower you to get away and seek help from professionals if necessary. Educating yourself about the signs and signals of violence will help you take charge of your own safety and well being. However, if you witness any type of abusive behaviors in real life, it is important that you do not try to physically react because that may increase the level of danger or force further victims to react inappropriately.