Emotional Abuse
Articles tagged with Emotional Abuse
Early institutional care lowers life expectancy
A long-term study finds that children in infant care institutions had a 48% higher risk of mortality and shorter life expectancy than those raised at home. The research highlights the importance of affection and stimulation in early childhood, revealing lifelong consequences for those who experienced institutional care.
Bullying and adverse social climate take measurable toll on mental health of gender-diverse youth
Research found that gender-diverse teens reported higher rates of psychological stress and psychotic-like experiences, which can lead to depression, anxiety, and other serious mental health disorders. Bullying and unsupportive legislation drove these findings.
Early life stress linked to long-lasting digestive issues
A new study suggests that early life stress during pregnancy and early childhood can lead to long-term digestive issues, including gut pain and motility challenges. The research found that early life stress can shape the development of gut-brain communication, contributing to gastrointestinal symptoms in both mice and humans.
The dehumanization effect: New PSU research examines how abusive supervision impacts employee agency and burnout
FAU study reveals social, family and health factors behind teen bullying
Adolescents bullied or engaging in bullying face lasting mental, physical and social challenges. The study identified socioeconomic disadvantages, race, physical differences, and pre-existing health conditions as risk factors for bullying.
Domestic abusers forge ‘trauma bonds’ with victims before violence begins
Researchers describe a tactical playbook used by male abusers to engineer 'trauma bonds', leaving victims desperate for approval. The study highlights the deliberate brainwashing tactics employed by perpetrators, shifting blame onto victims and ignoring codependency theories.
How the brain responds to bullying
Researchers found that bullying activates social and emotional brain networks, as well as autonomic threat response systems, leading to increased risk of mental and somatic health issues. Viewers with previous bullying experiences show stronger neural responses to bullied individuals, highlighting the long-term effects of bullying.
UTA fights digital abuse in domestic violence cases
The University of Texas at Arlington's MAVS ETA project provides GPS scanners to detect hidden tracking devices and other surveillance tools, helping survivors of domestic violence maintain safety. The project also educates advocates and survivors on TFA tactics and strategies for prevention and intervention.
Wayne State researcher examines long-term effects of bullying on college outcomes
A Wayne State University researcher is examining the long-term impact of bullying on adolescents' social and academic progress in college. The study, funded by the Spencer Foundation, aims to understand how peer victimization affects mental health and academic persistence during college.
Experiences of care and gaslighting in patients with vulvovaginal disorders
A cross-sectional study found common experiences of gaslighting and substantial distress among patients with vulvovaginal disorders. The study emphasizes the need for education supporting a biopsychosocial approach to vulvovaginal pain, as well as the development of validated instruments to quantify patient experiences.
Lack of services, stigma leave male survivors of intimate partner violence out in the cold, SFU study finds
A new SFU study found men experiencing intimate partner violence are less likely to seek outside help compared to women. As a result, they may experience worsening depression, substance misuse, and emotional distress, escalating the risks in the relationship.
Breaking the cycle: unveiling how childhood trauma fuels parenting and abuse
A recent study by University of Fukui researchers found that impaired empathy in parents who experienced childhood trauma increases the risk of abusive parenting, perpetuating a cycle of abuse. The study highlights the importance of targeted interventions, such as mental health support and parenting programs, to break this cycle.
How Florida’s Guardian ad Litems build trust, bond with youth in foster care
A study explored how GALs form relationships with youth and the role of training in this process. Findings highlight the critical role of trust and suggest that enhanced training programs, including trauma-informed care and advanced communication skills, can empower GALs to build meaningful connections.
Nearly 4 of 10 Americans report sports-related mistreatment
A new study found that nearly 40% of adult Americans report experiencing some form of sport-related mistreatment, with psychological and emotional abuse leading the way. The study also revealed that weight issues were a common reason for mistreatment, cited by 52% of respondents.
The cost of domestic violence to women's employment and education
A new report reveals that domestic violence significantly impedes women's employment and educational attainment, leading to a 9.4% employment gap and a 15% difference in university degree attainment rates. This results in lifetime earnings being up to 41% lower than their peers.
Adult children of divorced parents at higher risk of stroke
A recent study by researchers from the University of Toronto found that older adults who experienced parental divorce during childhood have a 60% higher odds of stroke. The study controlled for known risk factors and still showed a strong association between parental divorce and stroke.
More than half of college students report alcohol-related harms from others
A new study reveals that more than half of US college students experience alcohol-related harms caused by others. The findings show that students who identified as White, cisfemale, or transgender, and those living with roommates, were at greater risk. Commonly reported harms included social harm, sleep disruptions, and emotional hurt.
Unregulated experts can cause harm to children in family courts in England and Wales
A UCL study reveals that unregulated experts appointed by family courts in England and Wales have caused devastating harm to children, separating them from their mothers and forcing them to live with abusive fathers. The 'alienation' belief system has become a legal weapon that punishes and controls those who speak up about abuse.
New research highlights the overlooked dangers of subtle and covert abuse in intimate relationships
A scoping review reveals a lack of understanding about subtle and covert abuse in intimate relationships, with potential widespread impact. The study identifies key behaviours, including undermining, limiting, and withholding, which can lead to long-term emotional and psychological harm for victims.
Trauma takes its toll at the end of life
A recent study by UC San Francisco and the University of Michigan found that childhood trauma can lead to increased pain, depression, and loneliness in older adults. Participants who experienced more traumatic events were more likely to experience these symptoms during their final years.
Breaking the chain of intergenerational violence
A study by researchers from the University of Tokyo found that people with adverse childhood experiences are more likely to commit physical or verbal abuse against older adults. The study, which analyzed over 13,000 responses in Japan, revealed that psychological factors were a key contributor to this behavior.
Childhood trauma linked to major biological and health risks
A new study found that childhood trauma can have specific consequences for biological health and risk of developing 20 major diseases later in life. The study's findings differ by sex and type of stressor, highlighting the need for a precision medicine approach based on patients' sex and specific stress profile.
UBC Okanagan study raises concerns about partner violence in queer relationships
A UBC Okanagan study reveals that 98% of respondents reported experiencing intimate partner violence, with 70% showing symptoms consistent with a brain injury. The research highlights the need for tailored approaches to address IPV in queer relationships and acknowledges the intersectional nature of oppression.
Why some abusive bosses get a pass from their employees
A new study suggests that employees may label abuse from successful bosses as 'tough love,' rather than actual abuse. When a boss is seen as high performer, workers are less likely to show hostility and more likely to think their career can be boosted by success.
Lifesaving and life-changing: The kindness shown to forced migrants during their journeys
A new study reveals extraordinary acts of kindness from strangers who risked their lives to protect and help forced migrant survivors. Everyday kindness, such as offers of shelter and food, also played a crucial role in their journeys.
Developmental supports crucial for young victims of child abuse
A new study highlights the importance of providing developmental supports to young victims of serious child abuse before they start school. Researchers found that children who were removed from their homes and entered out-of-home care were more likely to be developmentally delayed in some areas, but also vulnerable in other areas. The ...
New study may broaden the picture of the consequences of childhood adversity
A new study from Karolinska Institutet has found a clear link between childhood adversity and the risk of mental illness later in life. The research suggests that genetics and environment play a significant role in contributing to adult psychiatric disorders, highlighting the need for targeted health care interventions within families ...
Monkey see, monkey do: how sideline sports behaviors affect kids
A new study from the University of South Australia found a link between parents' sideline conduct and athletes' behaviours. When parents behaved well, their child was more likely to project positive behaviour. However, when parents behaved poorly, this was related to greater antisocial behaviours in their child.
World’s largest childhood trauma study uncovers brain rewiring
A study of over 580 children found that childhood trauma disrupts neural networks involved in self-focus and problem-solving. The research suggests that trauma therapies should address not only thoughts but also the impact on the body, sense of self, emotional processing, and relationships.
Childhood relationships, experiences may have good and bad effects on adult heart health
Research finds that stable caregiver relationships in childhood may increase optimal heart health, while adversity and abuse can lead to poor cardiovascular health. Lower income as an adult may also introduce additional adversity, making the relationship between caregiver-child adversity difficult to see.
Chung-Ang University study highlights barriers preventing bystander help during gender-based violence
A recent study by Chung-Ang University reveals that lack of success in previous intervention attempts and negative emotions are significant barriers hindering bystander interventions. The research highlights the need for targeted education programs to address these barriers, particularly among university students and those experiencing...
Childhood trauma increases risk of chronic pain in adulthood, research to-date highlights
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that individuals exposed to childhood trauma are at an increased risk of experiencing chronic pain and pain-related disability in adulthood. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to address adverse childhood experiences.
Adverse childhood experiences linked to muscle dysmorphia
A new study found that adverse childhood experiences are associated with greater muscle dysmorphia symptoms in Canadian adolescents and young adults. Adverse childhood experiences, such as domestic violence and emotional abuse, may lead to body dissatisfaction and the pursuit of muscularity as a coping mechanism.
Study develops guidance to tackle staff bullying and incivility in the NHS
A new study has developed guidelines to help NHS leaders tackle staff unprofessional behaviours, targeting root causes and disproportionately affected groups. The research found that existing interventions have limitations and calls for a more targeted approach.
USDA grant will help MU researchers address opioid epidemic in rural Missouri
A three-year USDA grant will train healthcare and social workers in five high-risk rural Missouri counties to address childhood trauma and reduce opioid overdoses. The training covers topics such as ACEs, positive childhood experiences, and trauma-informed care.
Young children who are close to their parents are more likely to grow up kind, helpful and ‘prosocial’
A study using data from over 10,000 UK participants found that young children with warm parental relationships tend to display more socially-desirable behaviors like kindness, empathy and generosity. This association holds even after accounting for mental health factors.
Calls for verbal abuse of children by adults to be formally recognized as form of child maltreatment
Researchers highlight the importance of identifying childhood verbal abuse as a standalone subtype of child maltreatment to ensure targeted prevention. The review found that verbal abuse can have lasting impacts on children's wellbeing, including emotional and psychological repercussions.
Study explores impact of childhood trauma on sexual function in midlife women
Researchers studied 1,500 middle-aged women and found that those with four or more adverse childhood experiences were nearly twice as likely to be sexually inactive. The study also showed that these women were two times more likely to experience sexual dysfunction in midlife. Healthcare providers are encouraged to screen for childhood ...
Study compares youth detained for sex trafficking with more serious offenders
A new study from Florida Atlantic University compares the characteristics and risk factors of youth detained for running away or sex trafficking to those detained for more serious offenses. The research found significant differences in abuse rates, polyvictimization, and other factors between the two groups.
Childhood trauma may heighten subsequent risk of pregnancy complications
A pooled data analysis of 32 studies found that women who experienced childhood trauma were 37% more likely to have pregnancy complications than those who didn't. The risk of pregnancy-related diabetes, antenatal depression, underweight or premature babies, and preterm delivery was also significantly higher.
Friendly teasing or traumatic bullying? Homophobic name-calling leaves scars
A new study found that homophobic name-calling, even from friends, has a negative impact on teenagers' mental health, including depressive symptoms and decreased sense of belonging. The research highlights the importance of clear anti-bullying policies, teacher education, and supportive interventions to prevent such behavior.
Childhood maltreatment predicts adult emotional difficulties
A new meta-analysis suggests a strong link between childhood maltreatment and adult alexithymia, with three types of child maltreatment - emotional neglect, physical neglect, and sexual abuse - being particularly predictive. This can lead to difficulties in identifying and describing emotions, harming social and intimate relationships.
UK cardiology societies issue joint policy statement to stamp out bullying, harassment, and discrimination in the specialty
The British Junior Cardiologists' Association (BJCA) and the British Cardiovascular Society (BCS) have issued a joint policy statement to address bullying, harassment, and discrimination in UK cardiology departments. The statement emphasizes that every team member has a duty to call out inappropriate behaviors to drive culture change.
Clinicians must look beyond physical symptoms to care for people with deep-seated trauma
Experts urge clinicians to adopt a whole-of-person approach to medical care to address chronic disease and mental health issues related to child abuse and neglect. A trauma-informed biopsychosocial model of health can help reduce the negative impacts of exposure to serious child abuse and neglect.
When both mom and dad maltreat their child
A new study found that factors such as substance use, housing insecurity, and intimate partner violence are linked to an increased risk of both parents being involved in physical or sexual abuse. However, other risk factors like economic insecurity and parental mental health problems were not associated with any type of maltreatment.
Keeping retail employees safe: new study measures customer aggression
A new tool has been developed to measure customer aggression in the retail sector, which can lead to emotional exhaustion and job stress among employees. The scale identifies four types of aggressive behaviors, including being ignored or having fake negative reviews posted online.
Study finds disparate gender differences in victims of child sex trafficking
The study reveals that female youth charged with prostitution had significantly higher prevalence rates of physical abuse and lower likelihood of living with parents, while males were more likely to live with their parents. Education and training are crucial for professionals to identify sex trafficking victimization and reduce misiden...
Childhood trauma linked to adult mental health problems: women harmed more by abuse, men by neglect
A new study reveals that childhood emotional trauma and sexual abuse are strongly associated with psychiatric symptoms in women, while childhood emotional and physical neglect increase the risk of symptoms in men. The research analyzed data from over 791 volunteers worldwide.
Having suffered trauma during childhood triples the risk of suffering a serious mental disorder in adulthood
A recent study analyzing over 93,000 cases reveals a direct link between childhood trauma and the risk of developing a mental disorder in adulthood. The study highlights the importance of treating psychological trauma in patients and investing in prevention programs to reduce the risk of suffering a mental disorder.
Horrible bosses cause ‘race to the bottom’ - study
A new study by Anglia Ruskin University found that hostile behavior from leaders can lead to co-workers adopting similar behavior, creating a toxic workplace environment. The research also discovered an association between experiencing hostile behavior and emotional exhaustion, job insecurity, and abusive peer behavior.
New advice for doctors on how to identify and respond to reproductive coercion
A new paper provides guidance for healthcare workers on recognizing signs of reproductive coercion, which can involve psychological pressure, emotional blackmail, and physical violence. Doctors are advised to ask specific questions and establish a professional relationship with patients to gather more information and provide support.
The Lancet Psychiatry: Adults with a history of childhood trauma can benefit from recommended depression treatments, contrary to current theory
A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry suggests that adults with a history of childhood trauma can experience symptom improvement after pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, or combination treatment. Despite previous theories, these common treatments are effective for patients with childhood trauma.
Some forms of elder abuse worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, study finds
A new study found that reports of elder abuse increased, particularly in cases of physical and emotional abuse, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Financial abuse remained the most common type, but higher rates of emotional and physical abuse were reported during the pandemic.
Childhood emotional trauma linked to heightened MS risk among women
Research published in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found a strong association between childhood emotional trauma and an increased risk of multiple sclerosis (MS) in women. Women who experienced childhood abuse, particularly sexual abuse, were more likely to develop MS compared to those without a history of abuse.
Reading builds resilience among at-risk kids
A study from University of South Australia found that reading aloud to children can triple a child's resilience at school, particularly for those who have suffered abuse or neglect. The study identified reading as a key factor in supporting children's emotional, social and physical development before they start school.
No more ‘patch and go’: Revolving emergency departments must deliver more for victims of child abuse and neglect
Researchers found alarmingly high attendance rates at hospital emergency departments for children, teens, and adult victims of child abuse and neglect. Children exposed to child maltreatment have substantially increased risk of attending emergency departments during childhood and early adulthood.
Half of adults with ADHD have had a substance use disorder
Research reveals that young adults with ADHD are 69% more likely to develop a substance use disorder than their peers without ADHD. More than one-quarter of those with ADHD also experience major depression.
Receiving threatening or obscene messages from a partner and mental health
A new study found that one in fifteen adults experienced threatening or obscene messaging from a partner, with victims at higher risk of mental health issues. Recipients were more likely to be female, younger, and socioeconomically disadvantaged. The study suggests that exposure to these messages could lead to poor health outcomes.
Young women unite in world first study to improve mental wellbeing
A unique study co-designed by young women aims to develop trauma-informed, gender-responsive mental health resources. The initiative seeks to provide dedicated safe spaces for young women to connect, lean on each other, and share experiences.