The word 'abusive' is derived from 'abuse'. It is an adjectival usage, which means to use or treat improperly or wrongly. To be abusive is, therefore, to treat someone without the respect due, without caring about the dignity of the other person. There are many ways one can be abusive. It is not just about being physically violent, though that is what we most commonly associate with being 'abusive' in today's world. In fact, any act that is perpetrated without considering the dignity of the other person can be deemed abusive. You can be abusive if you physically harm someone. Even intent to harm is considered abusive behavior. You can also be abusive verbally, i.e. If you use bad language against someone so as to aggrieve the feelings of the other. Being abusive is an obvious negative trait, one that requires attention and treatment to be meted out to the person with the abusive personality.
