Psychological abuse facts for kids

Psychological abuse, also known as emotional abuse or mental abuse, is when someone repeatedly acts in ways that harm another person's feelings and mental well-being. It's like a very serious form of bullying that can make a person feel sad, scared, or worthless.

This kind of abuse often happens when one person has more power or control over another. It can make someone feel very anxious, sad, or even develop PTSD.

What is Psychological Abuse?

Psychological abuse is a type of abuse that targets a person's mind and emotions instead of their body. It's not about physical harm, but about words and actions that cause deep emotional pain and can lead to psychological trauma.

It's important to understand that this isn't just a one-time argument or disagreement. Psychological abuse involves a pattern of harmful behaviors that happen over time.

How Does it Happen?

This type of abuse often occurs in relationships where one person has more power or control. This could be between friends, family members, or even in other situations like at school. The person causing the abuse uses their power to make the other person feel bad about themselves.

One of the most common ways psychological abuse happens is through verbal abuse. This means using words to hurt someone. Examples include:

• Blaming: Always making someone feel like everything is their fault, even when it's not.
• Shaming: Making someone feel embarrassed or humiliated, often in front of others.
• Name-calling: Using mean or insulting names to put someone down.
• Constant criticism: Always finding fault with everything someone does.
• Threats: Saying things that make someone feel scared or unsafe.
• Controlling behavior: Trying to tell someone what they can or cannot do, or who they can be friends with.

These actions can slowly wear down a person's self-esteem and make them feel trapped or helpless.

What are the Effects?

Being a victim of psychological abuse can have serious effects on a person's mental health and well-being. These effects can last a long time if not addressed. Some common effects include:

• Anxiety: Feeling worried, nervous, or scared a lot of the time. This can make it hard to relax or focus.
• Depression: Feeling very sad, hopeless, or losing interest in things they once enjoyed. This is more than just feeling down for a day or two.
• Low self-esteem: Believing they are not good enough or that they don't deserve to be happy.
• Difficulty trusting others: It can become hard to trust new people or form healthy relationships.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): In severe cases, a person might develop PTSD, which involves reliving the abuse or feeling constantly on edge.
• Narcissism: Sometimes, people who experience abuse might develop traits of narcissism as a way to cope or protect themselves, though this is complex.

These feelings can make everyday life very difficult. It's important to remember that these effects are not the victim's fault.

Getting Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing psychological abuse, it's very important to seek help. You don't have to go through it alone.

• Talk to a trusted adult: This could be a parent, guardian, teacher, school counselor, or another family member. They can offer support and help you find solutions.
• Reach out to a helpline: Many organizations offer free and confidential help lines for young people. They can provide advice and connect you with resources.
• Understand it's not your fault: No one deserves to be abused. The person causing the abuse is responsible for their actions.
• Set boundaries: Learning to say "no" and protect your personal space and feelings is a big step.

Remember, getting help is a sign of strength, and there are people who care and want to support you.

See also

In Spanish: Maltrato emocional para niños