No, it is not normal or healthy for siblings, couples, or anyone else to resort to yelling, humiliating, or engaging in verbal/emotional abuse during an argument. While disagreements and conflicts are a natural part of any relationship, resorting to such harmful behaviors is not acceptable and should not be considered "normal."
Healthy communication in relationships involves expressing your thoughts, feelings, and concerns respectfully and constructively. Resorting to yelling, humiliation, or emotional abuse during an argument is toxic and can cause severe damage to the individuals involved and the relationship itself.
Here's why such behaviors are harmful:
Emotional harm: Verbal and emotional abuse can leave lasting emotional scars on the recipient. It can erode their self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being.
Communication breakdown: Yelling and humiliating each other during an argument can lead to a breakdown in communication. Instead of addressing the issues at hand, the focus shifts to hurting and attacking the other person.
Escalation of conflict: Engaging in abusive behaviors during an argument often escalates the situation, making it more challenging to reach a resolution. It can turn a simple disagreement into a much larger and more damaging conflict.
Toxic patterns: Repeating these harmful behaviors over time can establish toxic patterns in the relationship, making it difficult to foster trust, intimacy, and mutual respect.
Impact on mental health: Both the person being abused and the person displaying abusive behaviors can suffer from increased stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues due to the toxic dynamics.
It's important to recognize that healthy relationships are built on respect, empathy, and effective communication. Disagreements will happen, but it is crucial to address them in a manner that promotes understanding and resolution without resorting to abusive tactics.
If someone is trying to justify their abusive behavior by claiming it's "normal" or that "everyone does it," it is essential to challenge that perspective. Normalizing abusive behavior perpetuates the cycle of harm and prevents healthy growth within relationships. Instead, seeking help through couples counseling, individual therapy, or other support systems can aid in addressing conflicts in a healthier and more constructive way.
If you find yourself in a situation where you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, it's crucial to seek help and support from friends, family, or professionals who can assist in finding a safer and healthier path forward. Remember that no one deserves to be treated with cruelty and disrespect.