Episodes of abuse occur more often. Abusers, victims, other family members and observers, all may feel ashamed and depressed. They are more susceptible to alcohol and drug abuse and other antisocial behavior. Children who are abused are more likely to become abusers, themselves, as adults. Of course, physical and sexual abuse is illegal.
Abusers risk legal consequences.
Helping yourself Abuser or abused, you can help yourself. Acknowledge hurtful, controlling behavior as soon as it occurs. Don t minimize, deny, or try to forget about the behavior in the hope it won t happen again. If someone s behavior is hurting you, understand that it s not your fault. No one deserves to be mistreated.