Includes constant yelling and put downs, name calling and bringing up private matters which can cause shame or fear, ridiculing someone’s religion or cultural background, swearing and constant humiliation – whether in public or private, criticising someone’s intelligence, their body image or their capacity to be a good parent or romantic partner. Verbal abuse often accompanies other forms of abuse – for instance an abusive partner may prevent their spouse getting a job, then criticise her for being lazy and not working.