Why Reactive Abuse Is So Often Misunderstood
Reactive abuse is one of the most overlooked and misdiagnosed forms of emotional bullying. It happens when a person is repeatedly provoked, gaslit, or mistreated—until they finally react. Then, that reaction is weaponized against them.
They’re called “crazy,” “dramatic,” or “abusive,” even though they were pushed to that point by someone else’s cruelty.
This is not a coincidence. It’s a tactic—used by narcissists, bullies, and abusers to avoid accountability. It’s how they flip the script and make the victim look like the aggressor.
You might see reactive abuse show up in:
- Narcissistic family dynamics
- Toxic workplaces
- Coercive romantic relationships
- School environments where bullying goes unchecked
And the emotional toll is real: confusion, shame, anxiety, and often, deep self-blame. Many victims of reactive abuse spend years believing they were the problem—when really, they were just surviving.
💬 If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Learn more about reactive abuse →
