Abuse - Forms, Consequences, and Effects
When we think of abuse, we primarily think of sexual abuse. But abuse of people occurs in various forms.
Definition
Section titled “Definition”Abuse is initially defined as the exploitation of a special relationship, in which the perpetrator gains an advantage (sexual, material, power, etc.) at the expense of the victim.
Abuse is always carried out by a person who is superior to the victim.
The perpetrator very often exploits:
- Trust
- Ignorance
- Dependence
- The victim’s fear
Children are most at risk, as they do not yet possess the personality strength to defend themselves.
Forms of Abuse
Section titled “Forms of Abuse”1. Emotional (Psychological) Abuse
Section titled “1. Emotional (Psychological) Abuse”Emotional abuse often begins as early as infancy, right after birth:
- The child is “unwanted” or perceived as a nuisance
- Being left alone
- Withdrawal of love
- Indifference
- Not responding to the child’s needs
- Demeaning behavior
- Humiliation
- Confinement (grounding)
- Ridicule
- Being mocked in front of others
- Destroying self-esteem
- Forced eating behavior
This is the root cause of why people with borderline personality disorder later repeatedly enter destructive relationships or relationships in which they are emotionally abused.
2. Sexual Abuse
Section titled “2. Sexual Abuse”Sexual abuse encompasses many levels. Sexual abuse, especially in childhood, triggers trauma.
This includes, among others:
- French kissing
- Touching of genital areas
- Insertion of objects
- Oral, vaginal, anal intercourse
- Penile abuse
- Forced participation in pornography
- Inducement to sexual acts
- Ritual abuse
- Rape
3. Physical Abuse
Section titled “3. Physical Abuse”Physical abuse includes:
- Hitting with objects
- Beating
- Kicks
- Punches
- Slaps
- Use of physical force
- Restraining, binding
- Choking
- Scalding
- Other physical injuries of any kind
- Deprivation of basic needs (sleep, food)
Long-Term Consequences of Abuse
Section titled “Long-Term Consequences of Abuse”Emotional, sexual, or physical abuse can lead to a variety of short-term and long-term consequences.
Psychosomatic Complaints
Section titled “Psychosomatic Complaints”- Sleep disorders, nightmares
- Concentration difficulties
- Speech disorders
- Pelvic problems, menstrual problems
- Skin conditions (neurodermatitis)
- Allergies
- Disturbed body awareness
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Sexual dysfunctions
Mental Disorders
Section titled “Mental Disorders”- Personality disorders
- Self-harming or self-injurious behavior
- Suicidal behavior
- Borderline personality disorder
- Development of neuroses
- Later attachment and relationship problems
- Addictions of any kind
- Dissociative behavior
- Sadomasochistic behavior
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Personality changes
- Eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia)
- Compulsive behavior
Borderline and Rape
Section titled “Borderline and Rape”Regarding why people with borderline personality disorder repeatedly — and at an elevated rate — fall victim to rape:
The patterns experienced in childhood and the resulting self-perception (“I’m not worth it,” “it’s my fault”) lead those affected to:
- Place themselves in dangerous situations
- Not recognize warning signs
- Be unable to protect themselves adequately
- Blame themselves
Finding Help
Section titled “Finding Help”If you are currently affected by abuse or have been in the past:
- Crisis hotline: 0800 111 0 111 (free, 24/7 - Germany)
- Sexual Abuse Helpline: 0800 22 55 530 (Germany)
- Weisser Ring: Victim support for violence
- Seek therapeutic support