Is Repeated Verbal Abuse and Public Humiliation a Form of Abuse?

Abuse doesn't always leave physical scars. In many cases, the most damaging wounds are emotional—and they often stem from repeated verbal attacks and public humiliation. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Is what I’m experiencing considered abuse?” you're not alone. Let’s break it down.

What Is Verbal Abuse?

Verbal abuse involves the use of language to hurt, demean, or control another person. This may include:

Name-calling
Insults
Constant criticism
Gaslighting
Threats or intimidation

When verbal abuse happens repeatedly, especially over a long period of time, it can wear down a person's self-esteem and sense of safety.

What About Public Humiliation?

Public humiliation goes a step further—it’s when someone deliberately shames or degrades you in front of others. This could happen in the workplace, at home, in social settings, or even online. It can look like:

Being mocked in front of friends or coworkers
Having personal or sensitive information shared without consent
Being laughed at or publicly corrected in a demeaning way

So, Is It Abuse?

Yes. Repeated verbal abuse and public humiliation are widely recognized as forms of emotional or psychological abuse. Emotional abuse is just as serious as physical abuse and can lead to long-term psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more.

Emotional abuse often includes a pattern of behavior meant to control, belittle, or isolate another person. It’s important to note that you don’t have to be physically harmed for the abuse to be real or valid.

What Does the Law Say in the Philippines?

In the Philippines, repeated verbal abuse and public humiliation may be covered under several laws, depending on the context and the identity of the victim.

✅ For Women and Children in Domestic or Romantic Relationships:

Republic Act No. 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 (VAWC Law), recognizes psychological violence as a punishable offense. This includes:

Repeated verbal abuse
Harassment and intimidation
Public ridicule or humiliation
Mental or emotional anguish

Victims may file for protection orders and pursue criminal charges. Penalties may include imprisonment and fines, depending on the severity of the abuse.

✅ For Men and Other Genders (or Non-Domestic Settings):

While RA 9262 focuses on women and their children, other laws protect everyone, regardless of gender identity:

1. Revised Penal Code (RPC) of the Philippines – Applicable to all
Some provisions that may apply include:

Article 287: Unjust Vexation – when someone causes you irritation, annoyance, or emotional disturbance.
Article 282: Grave Threats – if someone verbally threatens to harm you or your property.
Article 358: Oral Defamation (Slander) – when someone publicly attacks your character.
Article 364: Intriguing Against Honor – when false or harmful rumors are spread to damage your reputation.

2. Republic Act No. 11313: The Safe Spaces Act (Bawal Bastos Law) – Gender-Inclusive
This law prohibits gender-based verbal abuse, sexual remarks, slurs, and public humiliation in:

Streets and public spaces
Workplaces and schools
Online platforms

It applies to all genders, including men and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

3. Civil Code – Claiming Damages
If the abuse results in psychological harm, the victim (regardless of gender) may pursue a civil case for damages, especially if supported by documentation or expert evaluation.

Why It’s Important to Speak Up

Emotional and verbal abuse can be difficult to identify, especially if it’s been normalized in your relationships. But recognizing it is the first step toward healing. Whether it’s in a romantic relationship, workplace, family dynamic, or friendship, no one deserves to be consistently put down or humiliated.

You are allowed to set boundaries. You are allowed to say no. And you are absolutely allowed to walk away from toxic environments.

What Can You Do?

If you believe you or someone you know is experiencing emotional abuse:

Reach out to a trusted friend or family member.
Speak to a licensed mental health professional.
Contact local or national abuse support services.
File a report with your Barangay or local authorities.

Organizations like the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) provide resources and legal support for victims of abuse. Men may also contact legal aid centers or the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) for guidance.

Disclaimer:
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or psychological advice. I am not a lawyer or licensed mental health professional. For personalized help, please consult a qualified attorney or contact the appropriate government agencies or support services.

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