Spousal abuse is not limited to physical violence. The verbal abuse of a spouse damages the victim emotionally and psychologically, according to HelpGuide.org. Dealing successfully with ongoing verbal abuse usually requires professional support and assistance, according to "Representing Victims of Sexual and Spousal Abuse" by Nathalie Des Rosiers & Louise Langevin. The failure to cope with ongoing verbal abuse exposes you to the prospect of suffering serious emotional and psychological issues.
Step 1
Remove yourself physically from your spouse if he begins to verbally abuse you. If this means walking out of the house to avoid a confrontation, do so. The most effective means of coping with spousal verbal abuse is physical separation from your spouse.
Step 2
Call law enforcement immediately if your spouse attempts to prevent you from leaving the scene when verbal abuse starts.
Step 3
Establish specific boundaries with your spouse. Clearly state that verbal or any other type of abuse or harassment is not acceptable.
Step 4
Write down any boundaries you set with your verbally abusive spouse, including consequences if your spouse violates those boundaries. Make certain those consequences are completely within your control. For example, rather than including a provision that your spouse must leave the residence if he becomes verbally abusive, state that you will leave the premises or call law enforcement to remove your spouse.
Step 5
Confide in a trusted friend or family member about the verbal abuse you experience. You do not need to broadcast your situation. Rather, seek the support and assistance of one or two trusted individuals.
Step 6
Obtain professional assistance in the form of therapy or legal representation, depending on your specific circumstances. There are therapists and lawyers who specialize in cases of spousal or domestic abuse.
Tips and Warnings
- Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline, at 800-799-7233, for assistance in finding resources in your area to cope with a verbally abusive spouse and other types of domestic abuse and violence.
- In some cases, verbal abuse is the first stage of an escalating pattern of spousal abuse, according to "Finding Your Way Through Domestic Abuse: A Guide to Physical, Emotional And Spiritual Healing" by Constance Fourre. Sometimes, verbal abuse leads to physical violence. Verbal abuse should not be ignored. Victims of spousal verbal abuse should take action to prevent an escalation of the situation.
References
- HelpGuide.org: Domestic Violence and Abuse
- "Finding Your Way Through Domestic Abuse: A Guide to Physical, Emotional, And Spiritual Healing"; Constance Fourre; 2006
- "Representing Victims of Sexual and Spousal Abuse"; Nathalie Des Rosiers & Louise Langevin; 2002
Member Comments