What is abuse?

Therapist Response

Abuse takes place when the abuser hurts, demeans or humiliates the victim with the goal of getting what the abuser wants at the expense of the victim’s wants, needs or best interests.  Abuse is sometimes an inordinate response (physically, verbally or emotionally) to a relatively minor problem of life. For example, a person forgets to take out the garbage and their partner throws the garbage all over the kitchen.

Carolyn Rexius, LCSW Executive Director Christians as Family Advocates Eugene, Oregon