During this phase, the perpetrator may be argumentative and easily angered and will often yell, criticize the victim, swear, and use hostile/threatening gestures. Sometimes the abuser will use coercion, threats, or manipulation and during this phase, several verbal altercations may occur. During this phase, the tension between the couple escalates and the person being abused often feels like he/she is walking on eggshells or has a continual fear that something will happen if they upset their partner.