Is this considered abuse?

[Guest]

My dad has threatened to punch me in the face if i talk to him, screams at the top of his lungs at me, slams doors when he knows it scares me from something that happened to me earlier in life. He has threatened to almost kill me i.e. beat me within an inch of my life, lets other people chew me out and tells me I am a lazy fool because I have a learning disorder. he tells me i care about nothing, cussed me out when he didn't like what I got my mom for her birthday. it's not true and I don't want pity i am considering running away, and if i am caught i am saying if i am returned to him, i will kill myself. i don't know what to do i'm so confused

[ccsmod3]

Re: Is this considered abuse?

Thank you for reaching out to us at the National Runaway Switchboard. It sounds like you are going through an especially difficult time right now. We are sorry to hear about the things your dad says and does. It must be very hard to live in a household where you are hearing threats and being called names.

It sounds like your main question is whether or not this is abuse. Abuse can include both physical and non-physical like verbal or emotional. If you feel you are being abused and you would like to file an abuse report, we can help you with that process. These types of reports generally go through Child Protective Services (CPS). Most states offer a toll free abuse reporting hotline. If you are interested in filing a report we can either take it for you or stay on the line with you by conference calling.

If you do not want to file a report, that is of course up to you. We are mandated reporters though so if you call and provide all your information (name, dad’s name, city/state, address, phone number, etc.) then we would have to file a report. Otherwise, we are here to listen and make sure you are safe.

You also mentioned considering running away and killing yourself if you are returned to your dad. We are not here to tell you what to do, but if you are considering these things, you are welcome to call us at 1-800-RUNAWAY. We are anonymous and confidential and can be reached 24/7. If you find yourself in a situation where you truly feel endangered whether it is from your dad or yourself, there is also the option of 911 or the National Suicide Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK.

We hope this helps and that things get better for you. Stay strong.

-NRS