What is Verbal Abuse?
Controllers use verbal abuse to subtly undermine their victim's perceptions, to manipulate them into doing what they want,
to foster dependency, to isolate them from truth, from outside contact and even from their own children. They may withhold
information while lying to their victim.. Controllers create confusion, emotional pain and mental anguish, while periodically
"rescuing" their victim by seeming to offer the balm of love that alleviates the victim's pain drawing the victim ever closer.
Controllers gain and maintain power over people while often presenting a perfect persona to the world.
"Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior that a person uses to gain power and control over an intimate partner. It can
include physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Domestic violence tends to recur and increase in severity over time.
Domestic violence is a crime and almost always escalates. It won't end without intervention and change on the part of the
batterer.
Remember that you are not alone.
It is not your fault that your partner is violent." - Snohomish County Center for Battered Women.
If you think you may be a victim of domestic violence, but aren't sure, take this self test
CBW 24-HOUR HOTLINE:
(425)-25-ABUSE
WA STATE HOTLINE:
1-(800)-562-6025
NATIONAL HOTLINE:
1-(800)-799-SAFE
Facts on Domestic Violence
Between 50% - 70% of the men who batter their wives/partners also abuse their children.
Over one-half of marriages in the United States involve at least one incident of battering.
Everyday, four women die in this country as a result of domestic violence.
Violence is the reason stated for divorce in 22% of middle-class marriages.
Domestic Violence Resources
Snohomish County Center For Battered Women
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, the Center for Battered Women can help you. We provide many
free confidential services including shelter, legal referrals, support groups, and domestic violence education. For information
about our services call our hotline at 425-25-ABUSE (425-252-2873).
You can help by getting informed, getting involved, or giving your time or money. Call our Administrative Office at 425-259-2827.
