abuses

Abuse refers to patterns of harmful behavior used to control or exploit another person or group. It can be physical, emotional or psychological, sexual, financial, or digital, and may occur within intimate relationships, families, workplaces, institutions, or communities. A defining feature is a coercive dynamic in which the abuser seeks power and control and the victim has limited ability to leave or resist.

Common forms include physical abuse, which involves bodily harm or the threat of harm; emotional or psychological abuse, which includes humiliation, isolation, and manipulation; sexual abuse, involving non-consensual contact or exploitation; and financial abuse, which centers on controlling money and resources. Digital or online abuse uses technology to monitor, harass, or shame someone, while neglect refers to the failure to meet basic needs or safety in caregiving contexts. Institutional abuse occurs when organizations or systems cause harm through neglect, discrimination, or punitive practices.

Abuse often follows a cycle of tension building, an abusive incident, reconciliation, and a calm period, with the cycle potentially repeating over time. Risk factors can include dependency, learned violence, social isolation, and economic stress, while protective factors include supportive networks, safe housing, and access to services.

Effects range from physical injuries to mental health problems such as anxiety and post-traumatic stress, as well as long-term trauma and intergenerational impact. In workplaces and institutions, abuse can create environments of fear, discrimination, and distrust.

Responses encompass protective laws and reporting obligations in some settings, as well as services such as hotlines, shelters, counseling, and legal aid. Prevention emphasizes education, risk assessment, accessible reporting channels, and addressing underlying factors such as inequality and poverty.