Rescue 101: How to Detect Abuse?

Abuse is common, may it be at home, in school, office settings, both in private and public institutions, in the bus or train or even in the streets. Abuse occurs in all social levels, in all races and in all cultures.

Abuse is a physical or mental harm caused by someone in a position of trust- such as family member, teachers, partners, or caregivers.

What are the characteristics of the abuser?

- Aggressive and powerful. This involves manipulation and may use intimidation and control tactics.

-Always feeling superior towards others.

-They always think that they are right, poor listener, close minded, domineering type of people, bossy, doesn't show appreciation, loud yelling, they always want to win in an argument, impatient, rude and ruthless.

Who are the victims?

• Women and Men (few)
• Spouses who's totally depended or over dependent with their partners.
• Neglect children or children at home.
• Older adults.
• People with disabilities or physical dysfunction.

What are the characteristics of the victims?

• Low self-esteem.
• Socially withdrawn.
• Lesser friends.
• Don't express true feelings.
• Nod their head often.
• apologetic.
• Some are drawn to alcohol and drugs.
• Suicidal thoughts and attempts.

There are four types of Abuse:

PHYSICAL ABUSE 

Pinching, hair pulling, pushing, slapping, hitting, shaking, choking, biting, or kicking are the forms of abuse given by the abuser to the victims. These are very common and when you suspect anything of these, you may realize that the person is abuse. The worse and the deadly signs of this type of abuse are burning, using weapons, poisoning, or throwing sharp and heavy objects towards the person. This is deadly and violent that causes pain, injury or even death.

SEXUAL ABUSE 

Woman are susceptible to this kind of abuse. Specifically, at home, in school, in the office or in politics. Unwanted sexual activity, sexual harassment, rape and attempted rape are part of this abuse. Undesirable fondling, touching, kissing, and exposure (when the abuser shows his or genitals to the victim) are the signs of sexual abuse.

EMOTIONAL ABUSE

Another term of this abuse is Psychological abuse. Any form of offensive use of words verbally or non-verbally are signs of this type of abuse. The abuser will usually use humiliating, or demeaning the victim in public or in private. When the victim is called names, yelled at, insulted, mocked, threatened or sworn at, he or she has been emotionally abuse. Any use of words or actions that cause mental harm and diminishes the victim's dignity and self-worth are not legitimate.

FINANCIAL ABUSE 

Older adults which has mental and physical dysfunction are mostly the victims of this abuse. Under age children who can't handle their money for the period of time are often the victims. Financial abuse are the misuse of a person's money, property, usually for the abuser's gain. This involves stealing, forging signatures, selling property or possessions without permission or forcing the victims to change the will of testament under the abuser's name are the form of financial abuse.

If you suspect any type of the above mentioned, it's up to you to report it to the authorities. However, when you report the abuse, it is essential to write all the necessary observations and information with both parties. Record the name of the abuser and the victim's name with their proper contact information. Make it sure that you're not making assumptions. Whatever you say will be use against you, so false statement are not relevant and unnecessary.