So, was Travis being 'abusive' when he was trying to protect himself from her stabs?
Yes. In JodiSpeak he was being abusive, verbally and physically.
He was probably calling her bad (maybe even foul) names. Verbal abuse.
He wasn't protecting himself, he was stopping her, making it difficult to finish her project.
His hands purposely (maybe even with force) got in the way. Physical abuse.
Again, not my opinion - sarcasm.
ETA: I do believe Jodi believes this was not her fault - he made her do it. Anything he did, made Jodi react the way she did.
She knew it was wrong, so she claims/believes he made her do it. Even if it was revenge, he made her feel that way.
I DO NOT believe this, she is responsible for her own actions.
SHE IS at fault, 100%, no way around it. Premeditated M1 let the chips fall and land were need be for the sentencing.
Thoughts and Prayers continually for Travis' family and for Travis to rest in peace.
Please, I mean no disrespect for Travis or his family.