Emotional abuse is a pattern of behavior where a parent uses words, actions, or neglect to control, belittle, or manipulate a child. Unlike physical abuse, it does not leave visible marks, which is why it often goes unnoticed. Common forms include constant criticism, humiliation, rejection, gaslighting, and emotional neglect. A child raised in this environment may grow up feeling unworthy or anxious. Emotional abuse can be subtle, such as consistently ignoring a child’s achievements, or overt, like public shaming. Over time, the child internalizes the message that their needs and feelings do not matter.
