Thursday, July 11, 2013

Characteristics of Emotional & Psychological Abuse


Abuse is not limited to physical violence. While psychological and emotional manipulation may leave no visible marks, the effects of these forms of abuse can be just as serious as physical trauma. Abuse that does not affect the body can have greater long-term consequences than abuse that leaves scars, but it can be much more difficult to recognize. Learning to recognize the signs and effects of abuse are the first step to ending and preventing serious harm.

The signs of physical abuse can be easy to detect, but often go unnoticed. Bruises, cuts, and other types of physical trauma are common indicators of domestic violence and should always be taken seriously. Victims of domestic violence typically also experience psychological and emotional abuse, and may feel helpless and unable to escape their abusers. In some cases victims even rationalize their mistreatment, making themselves believe they "deserve" to be mistreated for whatever reason.

Domestic abuse is not the only source of psychological or emotional abuse. The residents of nursing homes, for example, are sometimes mistreated by their caretakers. Unethical caretakers may steal or attempt to gain the trust of the residents for financial reward, coercing them into handing over their savings, pension, or other forms of income.

In order to psychologically manipulate their victims, abusers take notice of their victims' particular insecurities, fears, and psychological vulnerabilities. Abusers hide their actions behind a smile, or by presenting them as necessary or condoned, in order to get their victims to lower their guard. By alternately offering positive and negative reinforcement, abusers can make their victims psychologically dependent on them.

Unless it is addressed, abuse may continue unabated for years. By acting now, you can put an end to the abuse. To learn more about what courses of action are available to you, visit the website of the Charlotte personal injury lawyers at the Law Offices of William K Goldfarb.

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