BY : Muhammad Swaleh,Karachi.
It is on this basis that I am writing to shed some light on a particular type of abuse that may not be seen but leaves one with deep emotional scars, verbal abuse in families. And we have all heard the ancient expression, Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me. But the truth is words can dominate you and hurt your self esteem and cause long term psychological scars.
Shouting, continuous criticism, belittling and manipulative language is normal in most households, particularly when it is used on children or spouses. Verbal abuse does not leave bruises as does physical abuse, however, it destroys confidence, creates fear, and may cause depression, anxiety, and even self-harm.
What is worse is that it is usually the people we love most who give it to us such as parents, siblings, or partners. The victims are reminded to harden up or it must be the way the person is. Physical safety is no better than emotional safety, particularly in a location that is supposed to be full of comfort and care the home.
As a result of this letter, I am calling to the society to cease ignoring the issue of verbal abuse on the grounds that it is nothing more than mere words. We should have creation of awareness, better support systems to victims, and above all, emotional well-being issues in families should be talked about freely.
We ought not to wait to have relationships ruined by silence. We shall speak out and make our houses homes of love and not fear.
