Mental Abuse

I see the Family Dynamics Blog as only discussing birth order, divorce or death of a parent and the affects that these would have on the family unit.  I think that this is a very important part of family life today. We all deal with these at one point in time or another in our lives.  I would like to see us expand our discussion to possibly physical and emotional abuse. We see a lot of physical abuse spotlighted in the news today with the actions of players in the NFL and other sports. I am wondering however, about the mental abuse that happens not only in sports but in the everyday life of the average American family.

I would like to expand our research, view and discussion to this very important part of the Family Dynamics Blog. I feel that this is an important topic that is often hidden from public view. Most people are embarrassed to admit that someone is mentally abusing them. Physical abuse is sometimes easily hid, emotional abuse, however, can go on for years without notice.

I am interested in the factors that this type of abuse causes to not only the abused, but the entire family unit. I look forward to possible research and any comments on approaching this subject.

-From Psychology Today

“The other factor that makes emotional abuse so devastating is the greater likelihood that victims will blame themselves. If someone hits you, it's easier to see that he or she is the problem, but if the abuse is subtle - saying or implying that you're ugly, a bad parent, stupid, incompetent, not worth attention, or that no one could love you - you are more likely to think it's your problem. Emotional abuse seems more personal than physical abuse, more about you as a person, more about your spirit. It makes love hurt.”

 -Sally Hamilton