Children who are emotionally abused and neglected face similar and sometimes worse mental health problems as children who are physically or sexually abused, yet psychological abuse is rarely addressed in prevention programs or in treating victims, according to a new study published by the American Psychological Association.
—American Psychological Association
Psychological Abuse is Important!
Psychological abuse can leave no visible marks, yet its effects can follow a child well into adulthood. For too long, the consequences of emotional abuse and neglect have received less attention than those of physical and sexual abuse.
Research is helping to change that.
In September 2024, Statistics Canada published a national study examining childhood non-physical maltreatment and its relationship with mental health disorders and suicidal ideation.
The findings were significant. Among Canadians surveyed, 40.4% reported experiencing emotional abuse during childhood, and 20.0% reported emotional neglect. The researchers found that these experiences were associated with an increased likelihood of mental health difficulties, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders and suicidal ideation.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in Trauma, Violence, & Abuse in 2023 reached a similar conclusion. After reviewing 90 studies, researchers found that childhood emotional abuse and emotional neglect were associated with a range of mental health difficulties in adulthood, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders and suicidal thoughts or attempts.
These findings matter because psychological abuse is not simply about hurt feelings or a difficult childhood. It can have lasting consequences for a person’s emotional well-being and mental health.
The World Health Organization also recognizes emotional abuse and neglect as forms of child maltreatment with potentially lifelong effects.
As someone who experienced psychological abuse, I believe we need to take these findings seriously. We need to recognize the harm, improve awareness and ensure that children and adult survivors receive the support they deserve.
Abuse does not have to leave a physical mark to leave a lasting wound.
