Avoid behaviors that demean or control others. When you are angry at your partner or children, respond without hurting or humiliating them. Model a non-violent, respectful response to resolving conflicts in your family. Contribute your time, resources or money. Many victims don't see the things their partners do the them as abusive, and they don't see them as a pattern.
Abuse is about control.
It is one person scaring another person into doing what he wants her to do. It is not just one hit. It is a pattern. Abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, economic. It can also be criminal.