Verbal abuse in a marriage is a form of emotional abuse that involves the use of words or behaviors to manipulate, intimidate, and maintain power and control over a partner. It can take many forms and can come from partners, caregivers, coworkers, parents, and others. Verbal abuse usually happens in private where no one else can intervene and eventually becomes a regular form of communication within a relationship. It can be difficult to recognize verbal abuse if youre not being physically hurt, but emotional and verbal abuse may be a sign that physical abuse will follow.

Here are some common signs of verbal abuse in a marriage:

• Name-calling
• Constantly feeling demeaned or belittled
• Being subjected to the silent treatment by a partner
• Being subjected to insults, humiliation, and ridicule
• Being blamed or scapegoated
• Privacy invasion
• Bullying, harassing, or assaulting
• Disrespecting, rejecting, or isolating
• Intimidating or controlling
• Manipulating

Any comments that make you feel inferior or ashamed are often intentional by the abuser. Verbal abuse is a means of maintaining power and control over another in the relationship. If you are experiencing verbal abuse in your marriage, its important to seek help and support. You can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline for confidential support 24/7/365.