When people think of abuse, they often picture physical violence or verbal attacks. However, there is another type of abuse that can be just as damaging but is not always as easy to recognise: emotional abuse. This type of abuse involves manipulating someone’s emotions and causing them psychological harm.
If your child has been exposed to emotional abuse and is struggling to navigate the aftermath, we can help. Contact Venture Academy at 866.762.2211 or online for more information about dual diagnosis treatment for troubled teens in Canada.
Emotional Abuse Checklist: What Are the Signs?
Emotional abuse, also known as coercive or control abuse, can take many forms and can occur in any type of relationship. It is often used as a tactic to gain power and control over another person. The effects of emotional abuse may not be visible on the surface, but they can have a profound impact on a person’s mental health and well-being.
If you are concerned that your child may be experiencing emotional abuse, here are some common signs to look out for:
- Constant criticism and put-downs – Emotional abusers will often belittle and humiliate their victims, making them feel insignificant and worthless.
- Control and isolation – Abusers may try to control every aspect of their victim’s life, such as who they can see and talk to, where they can go, and what they can do. This can lead to the victim feeling isolated and trapped.
- Gaslighting – This is a form of emotional manipulation where the abuser will make their victim doubt their own thoughts, feelings, and reality. They may also try to make the victim feel crazy or unstable.
- Emotional blackmail – Abusers may use guilt, threats, or other manipulative tactics to get what they want from their victims.
- Withholding affection – Emotional abusers may withhold love, attention, or intimacy as a way to control and punish their victims.
- Intimidation – Abusers may use intimidation tactics such as yelling, breaking things, or making threats to instill fear in their victims.
- Passive-aggressive behaviour – This type of behaviour involves using subtle insults, backhanded compliments, or other passive-aggressive tactics to undermine and control their victims.
- Mood swings – Abusers may have unpredictable mood swings and may lash out at their victim for no apparent reason.
- Blaming the victim – Emotional abusers will often shift the blame onto their victims for their own actions and behaviours.
- Minimising or denying abuse – Abusers may downplay their actions, deny that they are being abusive, or try to justify their behaviour.
It is important to remember that emotional abuse can happen to anyone and is never the victim’s fault. If your teen is experiencing these signs of emotional abuse, it is essential to seek help on their behalf.
The Importance of Seeking Professional Help for Teens Who’ve Experienced Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse can have long-lasting effects on a person’s mental and emotional well-being, especially when experienced during their teenage years. It is a form of psychological violence that can cause significant harm and trauma to the victim. As such, seeking professional help for teens who have experienced emotional abuse is crucial in promoting their healing and preventing further harm.
Issues that can arise as a result of experiencing emotional abuse include:
- Low self-esteem – Constant criticism, insults, and humiliation from the abuser can erode a person’s sense of self-worth. This can lead to low self-esteem, lack of confidence, and negative self-image.
- Anxiety and depression – Emotional abuse can cause a person to feel constantly on edge, anxious, and fearful. This can often lead to the development of anxiety disorders or depression.
- Trust issues – Emotional abuse from someone close, such as a parent or caregiver, can make it difficult for a teen to trust others in their lives. They may struggle with forming strong and healthy relationships due to fear of being hurt again.
- Difficulty regulating emotions – Emotional abuse can also affect a person’s ability to regulate their emotions properly. They may have a hard time expressing their feelings or controlling them, which can lead to outbursts of anger or emotional detachment.
- Self-harm and risky behaviours – In severe cases, teens who have experienced emotional abuse may turn to self-harm as a way to cope with their pain. They may also engage in risky behaviours as a way to escape or numb their emotions.
- Social isolation – Emotional abuse can make a person feel isolated and disconnected from others. This can lead to social withdrawal, feelings of loneliness, and difficulty forming friendships.
With such serious consequences, it is crucial for teens who have experienced emotional abuse to seek professional help. A professional can help them heal from and process their trauma, build self-esteem, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and learn how to connect with others.
Get Help for Troubled Teens in Canada at Venture Academy
We understand that each teenager is unique and has their own set of challenges. That’s why we offer individualised treatment plans tailored to meet the specific needs of each teen. Call 866.762.2211 or contact Venture Academy online to unlock your teen’s fullest potential by accessing the support they need to thrive.
