DATING ABUSE Meaning and
Definition
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Dating abuse refers to a pattern of behavior in which one person in a romantic relationship seeks control and power over their partner through various abusive tactics. It involves a systematic and repetitive use of power and control tactics to manipulate and dominate the other person, leading to physical, emotional, psychological, or sexual harm.
Dating abuse typically occurs in teenage or adult relationships and can take many different forms, including physical violence such as hitting, slapping, or pushing, emotional and psychological abuse like verbal insults, humiliation, or threats, sexual abuse including non-consensual acts or coercive tactics, and controlling behaviors like isolating the partner from friends and family or excessive monitoring of their actions.
The abuser often maintains control by exploiting the victim's vulnerability, insecurities, and fear. Dating abuse is not restricted to any specific gender, and both females and males can be victims or perpetrators of such abuse. It is important to note that dating abuse can occur both in person and through various forms of technology, such as texting, social media, or online platforms.
Dating abuse has serious negative consequences for the victim, including physical injuries, emotional trauma, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. It is crucial to recognize the signs of dating abuse and seek help if one finds themselves or their loved ones in such a situation.
Etymology of DATING ABUSE
The word "dating abuse" is a compound term formed by combining the words "dating" and "abuse". Here is the etymology of both words:
1. Dating:
The term "dating" originated from the verb "to date", which came from the Middle English word "date" meaning "to sign or date a document". This Middle English word was derived from the Old French word "date", which meant "to write the date on". Ultimately, both the Old French and Middle English words can be traced back to the Latin word "data", the feminine form of "datus" which means "given" or "grant".
2. Abuse:
The word "abuse" originated from the Latin word "abusus", which is the past participle of the verb "abusare" meaning "to misuse".
