Victimization: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a situation where someone feels persecuted or treated unfairly as a victim over time. Often used in legal, social, or psychological contexts.

• The victimization of minorities in the workplace is a serious issue that needs to be addressed.
• She spoke out about her victimization to raise awareness and seek justice.

Refers to aggressive behavior that involves an imbalance of power or strength, typically recurring over a period of time. Common in schools, workplaces, and online environments.

• The school implemented strict policies to combat bullying among students.
• She experienced bullying in her new job and felt helpless.

Involves unwanted, persistent behavior that may be verbal, physical, or psychological, making the target feel uncomfortable or endangered. Frequently used in legal and workplace scenarios.

• He filed a complaint after enduring months of harassment at work.
• Online harassment has become a significant problem with the rise of social media.

Describes actions intended to make someone feel scared or inferior, often to exert control or influence over them. Can be used in both personal and professional settings.

• The manager’s intimidating tactics led to a toxic work environment.
• She felt a sense of intimidation during the heated argument.

Victimization is used when someone is treated unfairly or harmed repetitively, often in a systemic or deliberate manner. It can refer to both physical and emotional harm.

• She experienced victimization at her workplace due to her whistleblowing activities

Exploitation is used when referring to taking unfair advantage of someone, typically for personal gain. It is often seen in contexts like labor or resources, where someone benefits at the expense of another.

• The exploitation of workers in sweatshops is a significant human rights concern

Abuse refers to cruel, violent, or unfair treatment, often in a physical, emotional, or psychological manner. It is generally used when discussing deliberate harm inflicted on someone.

• Child abuse is a serious issue that needs immediate attention

Maltreatment refers to bad or unsatisfactory treatment of someone, which could be physical, emotional, or psychological. It is often used in more formal contexts.

• The animals in the shelter suffered from severe maltreatment