Abuse is any behavior that results in the mistreatment of another.  There are five major kinds of abuse; physical, emotional, sexual, psychological and economic.  Each kind of abuse can take many different forms.  Abuse can happen to anyone.  It can occur in all ages, income levels, races and education levels.  It can happen to people who are legally married, separated or living with a partner of the same or different sex.

The abuser is always responsible for the violence.  An assault is not always proceeded by a verbal argument and there is no support for the idea that "nagging" causes abuse.  It is the abusers own attitude and problems that cause the abuser to be abusive.
Abusive behavior is a socially learned behavior.  It is never caused by substance abuse.  Those who abuse may try to avoid responsibility for their actions by using alcohol or drugs as an excuse for their violence.