The Insidious Nature of Childhood Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse, especially during childhood, is a difficult concept to define. It could include constant criticism, threats of rejection, withholding love from a child, etc. Moreover, the interpretation is subjective. Unfortunately, it leaves a lasting emotional impact on the child’s mind and impedes emotional development and self-esteem. Based on more than 600 personal interviews, the article reviews the qualitative insights presented by individuals who experienced emotional abuse during childhood. These individuals’ issues varied, including low self-esteem, guilt, anger, etc. The article highlights some repeated patterns of emotional abuse we encountered during the interviews with Indians. The implications for therapeutic interventions are highlighted for psychotherapists and psychologists.