Abuse and violence

Deliberately aggressive or violent behavior by one person toward another that results in bodily injury. Physical abuse may involve such actions as punching, kicking, biting, choking, burning, shaking, and beating, which may at times be severe enough to result in permanent damage (e.g., traumatic brain injury) or death.

Individuals who experience physical abuse often feel helpless and isolated and are prone to the subsequent development of numerous pathological conditions, including depression, eating disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance use problems.

Adapted from the APA Dictionary of Psychology

Resources from APA

APA Resolution on Gender-Based Violence

Approved by APA Council of Representatives, August 2026

How to calm political violence, according to psychologists

Understanding drivers behind acts help prevent or mitigate destructive consequences

What’s my duty to report suspected abuse of children or vulnerable adults?

Often this is a legal question rather than an ethical one

Perspectives on how we can better address sexual, partner...

A special issue of Psychology of Violence with expert perspectives on the current state of the field

More resources about violence

What APA is doing

Program Offices

Violence Prevention Office

The Violence Prevention Office works to advance the application of psychological knowledge toward prevention of child maltreatment and youth violence and for the effective treatment for those exposed to violence and trauma.