Emotional Abuse

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Any type of harm, intimidation or distress caused by verbal or psychological torment characterises emotional abuse. If an individual is being emotionally abused it can be often be difficult for others to identify, as there is no physical evidence and people around the victim are unable to see the emotional scars. Due to this, the torment can continue for many years as unlike physical abuse, the scars go unrecognised. The abuser may repeat their actions in order to maintain control over an individual and frightens them into keeping quiet about the torture.

Emotional abuse can include constant yelling, screaming, threats, degrading insults, humiliation, manipulation, neglect, harassment, sarcasm, domination or control, withdrawal of any affection, being ignored for a period of time and isolating the victim from friends and family.

This type of abuse can seriously effect the development of an individual especially if it occurs during childhood. There are some common signs that are listed below but unless the sufferer confides in someone about their experiences, the abuse is likely to go unnoticed.

Signs of Emotional Abuse:

Sudden noticeable changes in an individuals behaviour

Depression or Anxiety

Changes in appetite

Loss of interest in activities and social gatherings

Appearing scared, jumpy or agitated

Sleep deprivation or insomnia

Lower self-esteem and self-confidence

Nervous in the company of a particular individual

Causes:

There is not one known reason as to what causes some individuals to emotionally abuse another individual. There are however some common factors that are thought to influence its development among certain individuals. The most common factor is that the abuser has suffered from some sort of abuse themselves, usually as a child. They are therefore repeating these actions and may be less aware that this is an inappropriate way to express their feelings. It is also common for individuals who become abusers to find it difficult to handle their anger and insecurities. Due to this they blame their problems on others instead of dealing with them.

Effects:

Emotional abuse can severely damage a person's confidence and self-esteem even to the state that the sufferer feels worthless, finding it hard to generate relationships. Effects can include:

Anxiety or Depression

Eating disorders

Isolation and withdrawal from others

Low self-esteem and confidence

Children may run away from home

Aggressive behaviour

Drug or alcohol abuse

Insomnia

Suicidal thoughts or attempts

Medical Help and Treatment:

Emotional abuse can be extremely damaging and it's important for the sufferer to seek help and support. It is often helpful for victims of emotional abuse to see a counsellor or therapist in order to regain their confidence and self-esteem. There are a variety of help sources available for sufferers of emotional abuse, however the individual must take the first step by willing to discuss their experience.

Further Help

Childline
NSPCC
A House Full Of Whispers (A book by Sharon Wallace, a survivor of physical, mental and sexual abuse.

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