What is Verbal Abuse?
Verbal abuse is any form of verbal communication that is intended to harm or belittle another person. It can include name-calling, insults, threats, and other forms of verbal aggression.
Is Verbal Abuse a Crime in Singapore?
Yes, verbal abuse is a crime in Singapore. It is considered a form of harassment under the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA).
Key Provisions of the POHA
The POHA defines harassment as any conduct that:
- Causes distress or annoyance to another person
- Threatens or intimidates another person
- Harasses or bullies another person
Verbal abuse can fall under any of these categories.
Penalties for Verbal Abuse
The penalties for verbal abuse under the POHA vary depending on the severity of the offense. They can include:
- Fines up to S$5,000
- Imprisonment for up to six months
- Both fines and imprisonment
Reporting Verbal Abuse
If you are a victim of verbal abuse, you can report it to the police. You can also file a complaint with the Protection from Harassment Bureau (PHB).
The PHB is a government agency that investigates and prosecutes cases of harassment. It can also provide support and protection to victims of harassment.
How to Prevent Verbal Abuse
There are a number of things you can do to prevent verbal abuse:
- Set clear boundaries with people.
- Avoid people who are known to be verbally abusive.
- Stand up for yourself if someone is being verbally abusive to you.
- Report verbal abuse to the authorities.
Conclusion
Verbal abuse is a serious problem that can have a devastating impact on victims. If you are a victim of verbal abuse, it is important to know that you are not alone. There are resources available to help you, and you do not have to suffer in silence.
