It can also be criminal. It is usually a whole series of behaviors used to get and keep control. Here is a list of questions for you to ask yourself. Anyone can be an abuser. On the surface, abusers may appear to be good providers, loving partners and law-abiding citizens, but their abusive behavior toward their victims can lead to severe injury and even to murder.
Abuse is often a learned behavior.
The person who uses any form of violence to control or manipulate a partner often has low self-esteem, may refuse to accept responsibility for the violence, and may believe the violence is justified. Often the abuser will attempt to rationalize or excuse the behavior or blame the victim for causing it There is no excuse for violent and abusive behavior. Violence is against the law and is always a choice. End these behaviors in your own life and challenge other men to end them as well. This includes challenging all forms of sexism wherever you find it.