child abuse: emotional abuse by parents

overview

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the behaviour of an emotionally abusive parent or caregiver does not support a child's healthy development and well-being. instead, it creates an environment of fear, hostility, or anxiety. a child is sensitive to the feeling, opinions, and actions of their parents. emotionally harmful attitudes may include the following.

showing a lack of regard for the child

this behaviour often includes rejecting the child by:

• not showing affection.
• ignoring the child's presence and obvious needs.
• ignoring the child when they are in need of comfort.
• not calling the child by name.

saying unkind things to the child

emotionally abusive parents say things or convey feelings that can hurt a child deeply. common examples include:

• making the child feel unwanted, perhaps by stating or implying that life would be easier without the child. for example, a parent may tell a child, "i wish you were never born."
• ridiculing or belittling the child, such as saying, "you are stupid."
• threatening the child with harsh punishment or even death.
• continuous verbal abuse.
• comparing the child to siblings or peers.
• blaming the child for family problems.

creating an emotionally unhealthy environment

some emotionally abusive parents place ill-advised or impossibly difficult expectations on their children, such as:

• encouraging the child to commit immoral or illegal acts.
• pressuring the child to grow up too fast.
• expecting the child to perform beyond their capability or maturity.
• isolating the child from family and friends.