Emotional and psychological abuse is the act of systematically breaking down someone's self-esteem, sense of self and sense of reality through a variety of tactics, with the intent to exert control over the victim and relationship.
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Emotional and psychological abuse tactics include but are not limited to:
•Name-calling •Sudden rages •Swearing •Yelling •Lying •Blaming •Belittling •Silent treatment (stone-walling) •With-holding affection •Threats •Intimidation •Isolation •Humiliation •Denial of abuse (gaslighting) |
All tactics do not need to be present for the relationship to be emotionally or psychologically abusive. It may also include elements of verbal, financial, sexual, physical or psychological abuse, such as threats of physical violence or sexually demeaning behaviour. |
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Emotional and psyhcological abuse is present in ALL abusive relationships, but can also be the only form of abuse within the relationship. Nonetheless, the effects of this type of abuse alone should not be minimised, as they can have a long-lasting and devastating impact on a victim's mental and emotional well-being, even leaving them feeling suicidal and often resulting in trauma. |
The Impact Of Emotional And Psychological Abuse
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It is not always obvious, often the opposite! Many tactics are extremely cunning, designed to make it look like it was the victim’s choice, and the abuser is not to blame.
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Effects of abuse include but are not limited to:
•Loss of confidence •Loss of identity •Dependency •High-alert •Walking on eggshells •Fear for physical, emotional or mental safety •Anxiety or other mental health concerns •Isolation •Confusion •Self-doubt •Self-blame •Lack of self-worth •Feeling unhappy but cannot understand why •Defending or making excuses for their behaviour •Trauma bonding |
there is hope, light and healing
After experiencing the devastating impact of abuse, we embark on a journey in search for answers. Little do we know, that this journey may be the start of our transformation!
Don't expect it to be all roses, healing is hard. Growth is hard. But it's also the most rewarding thing you will do for yourself. You have it within you, but maybe you've never really taken the time to put the work into yourself before? I know I hadn't. Now's the time, my friend.
Don't expect it to be all roses, healing is hard. Growth is hard. But it's also the most rewarding thing you will do for yourself. You have it within you, but maybe you've never really taken the time to put the work into yourself before? I know I hadn't. Now's the time, my friend.