Which form of violence includes put-downs, embarrassing someone in public, threatening, or telling a victim what to wear?

• A. Physical Violence
• B. Verbal Violence
• C. Sexual Violence
• D. Digital Violence

Answer: (B)

Verbal violence is a form of abuse that uses words and social pressure to harm or control someone. The behaviors described—putting someone down, embarrassing them in public, making threats, and telling them what to wear—are classic examples of verbal or psychological abuse. They aim to undermine self-esteem, create fear, and maintain power in the relationship, even when there isn’t any physical harm.

This differs from physical violence, which involves hurting the body; sexual violence, which involves coercion around sex or sexual acts; and digital violence, which uses technology to harass or control someone. Because the items focus on language, humiliation, and controlling behavior, verbal violence is the best fit.