Emotional abuse is not as apparent as other forms of violence; however, it can be just as damaging. Emotional abuse can also start later in a relationship after the abuser has groomed the person they want to control. Grooming starts with small abuses to see how much the person will tolerate.  Emotional abuse is a control tactic to devalue someone, so the person feels powerless.  Emotional abuse can also be used to manipulate others. Here are some forms of emotional abuse.

Intimidation

Intimidation can come in the form of threats, scary emotional reactions and punishment.  “If you do not do what I say, then…..”

Devaluing

Devaluing can come in the form of backhanded compliments, public humiliation, smear campaigns and hurtful criticism.

Smear campaigns

Smear campaigns are used to ruin the reputation of another person.  The abuser targets the person’s friends and family, colleagues or community.  A smear campaign consists of negative gossip about the targeted person.  

Alienation

This could be a parent turning a child against the other parent and their family or a partner turning the targeted partner away from friends and family. This could be a parent turning a child against the other parent and their family or a partner turning the targeted partner away from friends and family.

Gaslighting

Lying or manipulating the other person so that the abuser does not have to take responsibility for their actions or make the other person feel crazy.  An example would be catching the abuser in a lie, and then the abuser turning around and telling the person they are insane, seeing things, or that didn’t happen.

Manipulation

Harmful manipulation is done to get someone else to do something that they would not normally do.  

Stalking

Stalking is a violation of privacy to gather information, intimidate, control or manipulate. This form of abuse leaves someone feeling unsafe and violated. If you are being stalked, make safety a priority.

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Although I am a registered clinical psychologist with the Hong Kong Society of Counseling and Psychology, I am not a licensed psychologist or any other type of licensed therapist in the United States. The information I am providing here is educational and informational. This social media page does not provide professional advice, nor does it create a professional-client relationship or any other type of relationship between us. You should always consult your own licensed mental health professional before making any changes regarding your mental health. My goal is to educate, guide, consult, and empower you regarding your mental health journey. Always consult your licensed mental healthcare provider(s) and never disregard or delay medical advice based on information posted on this page or post.