While physical abuse leaves evidence like bruises or broken bones, the tell-tale signs of emotional abuse, like the abuse itself, are harder to identify. Some indicators are an ongoing sense of confusion, anxiety, and/or frustration.
Emotionally abusive relationships are built on a subtle yet destructive imbalance of power. Unlike physical abuse, this imbalance takes non-physical forms, such as control over finances, dismissal of a partner’s thoughts and feelings, or manipulation of trust.
Breaking down the definition of emotional abuse and taking a closer look at each part can help people get a clearer idea of what it is and if it is occurring in their relationship – an important first step in ending the abuse.
