Abuso

Abuso is the term in Spanish and Portuguese for the act of harming or exploiting another person through the exercise of power. It covers a range of harmful actions and is used to describe physical, psychological, sexual, economic, and digital harm, as well as neglect in caregiving contexts.

Different forms of abuse include physical abuse, which involves physical harm or threat; psychological or emotional abuse, such as manipulation, humiliation, and isolation; sexual abuse, including non-consensual acts or coercive sexual conduct; economic or financial abuse, where control of money or resources is used to dominate; and digital abuse, which encompasses online harassment, stalking, doxxing, or coercive use of technology. Neglect refers to the failure to meet basic needs, particularly in care relationships.

Abuse occurs in various settings and relationships, including intimate partnerships, families, institutions, workplaces, and caregiver dynamics. It is often linked to power imbalances, dependence, cultural norms, and access to resources. The consequences can be severe and long-lasting, including physical injuries, mental health disorders, trauma, chronic stress, and economic harm.

Responses to abuse involve recognizing and reporting it, seeking help, and accessing supportive services. Legal frameworks may define abusive acts, provide protective measures, criminalize certain behaviors, and mandate reporting in specific contexts. Support often includes hotlines, shelters, legal aid, medical and psychological care, and safety planning. Prevention emphasizes education, healthy relationship skills, bystander intervention, and accessible reporting channels, along with community accountability.

International bodies such as the World Health Organization and the United Nations promote the prevention of violence, survivor-centered services, and reliable data collection. If you or someone is at risk, contact local emergency services or trusted organizations for help.