Are we abusing the concept of "abuse?"

[dumbledore11214]

No: HPFGUIDX 124686


Janet:

See, this is why I think people have no sympathy for various 
posters' incessant cries of "abuse" -- the fact that apparently it 
can mean whatever anyone wants it to mean.  There is some 
justification for claiming abuse in Harry's case, but DUDLEY?
 
*snips extensive description of abuse*
 
Yes, he was spoiled.  But he certainly was nither physically or 
emotionally abused.  His parents gave him every luxury, took him to 
London for medical needs (remember the pig's tail?), and, when the 
school nurse finally got their attention, they reluctantly took 
steps to correct his weight problem (and succeeded).  And heaven 
knows, they do love him; they appreciate him; they give him 
emotional support and they definitely take an interest in his 
needs.
 

Alla:

I don't know. JKR does think that Dudley is abused. Why do you think 
she says that? 

I thought that was primarily of Dursleys disregarding his weight 
problem for years and years. I agree with you though that it seems 
that Dudley is getting a lot of emotional support from his parents.

JMO,

Alla