The root cause of abuse is the need for power, to exert power over someone. Abusers MUST have power and control over their victims. Power may be gained through the use of intimidation, threat, isolation, emotional or physical battering, economic control, or sexual abuse. Ninety percent of reported cases of abuse are against male abusers. The low incidence of reports against female abusers may be because men are slow to admit that they are victims.
Emotional abuse includes behaviors that degrade or make a person feel worthless, helpless or afraid.
Sexual abuse is mistreatment through sexual name-calling or forcing sexual activity upon an unwilling partner. Ask the Lord to help us deal with this grave problem. Acknowledge the reality of abuse. Study the issue of abuse and domestic violence to minister to both the abused and the abuser. Teach adults and children how to protect themselves from abuse and work to stop abusive behavior.