Children's Trust

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Emotional abuse is probably the least understood of all child abuse, yet it is the most prevalent, and can be the cruelest and most destructive of all. Often overlooked and under-reported, emotional abuse is particularly harmful to a child’s well being. The effects of emotional abuse last a lifetime, therefore we must begin to take this form of abuse much more seriously!

Emotional child abuse can come from adults such as teachers, coaches, parents or caregivers as well as from other children like siblings, bullies and girls in social cliques. This type of abuse leaves hidden scars that manifest themselves in numerous ways. Insecurity, poor self-esteem, destructive behavior, angry acts (such as fire setting or cruelty to animals), withdrawal, poor development of basic skills, alcohol or drug abuse, suicide and difficulty forming relationships can all be possible results of emotional abuse.

Types of Emotional Abuse:

1. Rejecting — Parents who lack the ability to bond will often display rejecting behavior toward a child. They tell a child in a variety of ways that he or she is unwanted. They may also tell the child to leave, call him or her names and tell the child that he or she is worthless. They may not talk to or hold the young child. The child may become the family scapegoat, being blamed for all the family’s problems.
2. Ignoring — Adults who have had few of their emotional needs met are often unable to respond to the needs of their children. They may not show attachment to the child or provide nurturance or show interest in the child, express affection or even recognize the child’s presence. Many times the parent is physically there, but emotionally unavailable.
3. Terrorizing — Parents may single out one child to criticize and punish. They may ridicule him or her for displaying normal emotions and have expectations far beyond his or her normal abilities. The child may be threatened with death, mutilation or abandonment.
4. Isolating — A parent who abuses a child through isolation may not allow the child to engage in appropriate activities with his or her peers; may keep a baby in his or her room, not exposed to stimulation; or may prevent teenagers from participating in extracurricular activities. Parents may require the child to stay in his or her room from the time school lets out until the next morning or restrict eating to isolation or seclusion.
5. Corrupting — Parents permit children to: use drugs or alcohol; to watch cruel behavior toward animals, to watch pornographic materials and adult sex acts, or to witness or participate in criminal activities such as stealing, assault, prostitution, gambling, etc.

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