Emotional Abuse
Understanding emotional and psychological maltreatment — the persistent behaviours that damage a child's mental health and sense of self-worth.
What is this?
Emotional abuse is the persistent emotional maltreatment of a child that causes severe and lasting adverse effects on their emotional development. It may involve conveying to a child that they are worthless, unloved, or inadequate. It is often harder to identify than other forms of abuse but is no less serious.
How it works
Emotional abuse includes threatening, humiliating, or rejecting a child; frightening or intimidating them; exploiting or corrupting them; or persistently ignoring them. It can occur in isolation or alongside physical or sexual abuse. Children who experience emotional abuse often internalise negative beliefs about themselves that persist into adulthood.
Warning signs
In your child's behaviour
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Prevention steps
Promote emotionally healthy environments
Schools and families can reduce the risk of emotional abuse by fostering cultures where children's feelings are validated, where adults model respectful communication, and where children learn to identify and express their emotions safely.
Train staff to recognise subtle signs
Because emotional abuse rarely leaves physical marks, it requires trained, observant adults who notice changes in a child's demeanour, confidence, and relationships over time.
Build trusted relationships with children
Children who have a trusted adult they can speak to are more likely to disclose or show signs of distress. Schools should ensure that every child has at least one adult they feel safe approaching.
What to do if it happens
- 1If a child discloses emotional abuse or you observe persistent signs, inform your Designated Safeguarding Lead immediately. Do not confront the alleged abuser.
- 2Record your concerns with specific observations, dates, and direct quotes where possible. Use your organisation's safeguarding recording system.
- 3Contact children's social care or the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 if you are concerned about a child's welfare and unsure whether to refer.
Related topics
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last reviewed: 2026-04-10