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Emotional and verbal abuseYou may not think you are being abused if you're not being hurt physically. But emotional and verbal abuse can have short-term and long-lasting effects that are just as serious as the effects of physical abuse. Emotional and verbal abuse includes insults and attempts to scare, isolate, or control you. It is also often a sign that physical abuse may follow. Emotional and verbal abuse may also continue if physical abuse starts. If you have been abused, it is never your fault. How can I tell if I’m being emotionally or verbally abused?You may be experiencing emotional or verbal abuse if someone:
How does emotional and verbal abuse start?Emotional and verbal abuse may begin suddenly. Some abusers may start out behaving normally and then begin abuse after a relationship is established. Some abusers may purposefully give a lot of love and attention, including compliments and requests to see you often, in the beginning of a relationship. Often, the abuser tries to make the other person feel strongly bonded to them, as though it is the two of them “against the world.” Over time, abusers begin to insult or threaten their victims and begin controlling different parts of their lives. When this change in behavior happens, it can leave victims feeling shocked and confused. You may feel embarrassed or foolish for getting into the relationship. If someone else abuses you, it’s never your fault. What are the effects of emotional or verbal abuse?Staying in an emotionally or verbally abusive relationship can have long-lasting effects on your physical and mental health, including leading to chronic pain, depression, or anxiety. Read more about the effects on your health. You may also:
Your partner’s behavior may leave you feeling as though you need to do anything possible to restore peace and end the abuse. This can feel stressful and overwhelming. Learn ways to cope and where to get help. What is gaslighting?“Gaslighting” is the word used when an abuser makes you feel like you are losing your mind or memory. An abuser might:1
Gaslighting is a form of emotional abuse that abusers use to maintain power and control. When a victim is questioning her memories or her mind, she may be more likely to feel dependent on the abuser and stay in the relationship. Gaslighting happens over time, and you may not notice it at first. Learn how to get help if you feel gaslighting is happening in your relationship. How can I get help for emotional or verbal abuse?If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If you aren’t in immediate danger, reach out to a trusted friend or family member, therapist, or volunteer with an abuse shelter or domestic violence hotline. Learn more about how to get help if you are in an emotionally or verbally abusive relationship. Did we answer your question about emotional and verbal abuse?The Office on Women's Health is grateful for the medical review by:
All material contained on these pages are free of copyright restrictions and maybe copied, reproduced, or duplicated without permission of the Office on Women’s Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Citation of the source is appreciated. Page last updated: February 15, 2021 What are the effects of emotional abuse?Emotional abuse of child or young person can increase the risk of:. mental health problems, including depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.. eating disorders.. self-harm.. language development.. problems forming healthy relationships.. What are the 5 signs of emotional abuse?5 Signs of Emotional Abuse. They are Hyper-Critical or Judgmental Towards You. ... . They Ignore Boundaries or Invade Your Privacy. ... . They are Possessive and/or Controlling. ... . They are Manipulative. ... . They Often Dismiss You and Your Feelings.. What is the most common emotional abuse?Verbal abuse is the most common form of emotional abuse, but it's often unrecognized, because it may be subtle and insidious.
What are the effects of emotional abuse from parents?This type of abuse can be extremely destructive and has been associated with a range of adverse child outcomes including emotional maladjustment, depression, poor self-esteem, conduct problems, aggression, inability to trust, and underachievement.
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