We all have heard the saying sticks and stones may break our bones but words can never hurt us. That saying does not apply to the emotionally abused; those words can break their hearts. Emotional abuse affects millions of people in this world and not many people notice or care. Mainly because the abuse usually occurs in secret or when it is talked about, it’s hard to prove because the bruises are not visible. Emotional abuse is much more torturous that physical abuse, it has the power to change a person and their life.
Unlike physical abuse, it does not leave you with bruised eyes or a broken arm, and yet it cuts deeper than physical pain. The victim fails to realize that they are being abused and may have their mind and soul bludgeoned to the extent where they may think they are responsible for the action. You can suffer from emotional abuse by the hands of anyone. Most of the time it is a spouse, but it also can be at the hands of a parent, sibling, co-worker, caregiver, or even a friend. By enforcing stricter laws and being more aware, we could stop that sadistic look from becoming a gunshot.
Emotional abuse comes in a form of a big bulky package, it is an attack involving a wide range of behaviors aimed at battering the heart and soul of the victim to gain control over them. This could include a cruel look, belittling, isolation, or even financial abuse. The victim gets blindsided, not realizing its happening, especially if it’s coming from the one they love and trust. Like physical abuse emotional abuse is a vicious circle that eats away at your self-confidence making it hard to leave. They longer they stay; they start to question themselves about their actions and beliefs. And over time, if it is not stopped, it escalates to serious threats or even physical abuse.
Abusers often appear decent, successful, sensitive, calm, and well put together to outsiders. But to their families they are often controlling, self-centered, critical, compulsive,...