Emotional Abuse

Alternate Names : Psychological Abuse, Mental Abuse, Verbal Abuse

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Friends, neighbors, and family members need to ask directly about signs of possible abuse. Talking to the victim and being supportive can make the victim feel less isolated. Showing concern lets the victim know that there is someone to turn to if he or she wants help.

Everyone should know what resources are available for abuse victims within their community. This can be done by reading books and articles on abuse. It's also important to support and promote training and education on recognizing and addressing emotional abuse.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Emotional abuse can destroy the victim's self-esteem so that he or she feels unworthy of love, respect, or friendship.

What are the risks to others?

It is hard for someone with such low esteem to have healthy relationships with others. In addition, victims of abuse sometimes become abusers themselves.