Getting ready to welcome the new boss at the office, all of us gathered at the door. It was exciting for me too, I dressed well, smiled, and wanted to greet him. I also bought him a bouquet. As I am about to start a new project, I hope my first impression helps build my career. . Unexpectedly, my new boss pulls up in a new car. My excitement was just as great as everyone else's to meet a new person while he stepped out of the car.
The man I'm waiting for is not a stranger...he's an old foe from college!! My dreams were crushed in no time. Under this new boss, I was sure I would never be able to grow. My eyes welled up with tears. Even without greeting him, I rushed to my cabin.
It seems impossible to get in touch with this man for my dream project. With him, I've only had bad experiences in the past. The worst thing that could have happened was that all expectations were turned upside down.
My mind is swirling with many thoughts. No matter how hard I try, I cannot calm myself. I was not hurt by his words or deeds. The mere presence of him bothers me so much. Psychological abuse is exactly what this is.
What is Psychological Abuse?
Psychological abuse is the regular and deliberate use of words and non-physical actions to manipulate, hurt, weaken, or frighten someone on an emotional level. It encompasses a range of emotions, mental processes, and behavioral traits.
Psychological abuse addresses both the thought process and the behavioral aspects in contrast to emotional abuse, which focuses solely on emotional changes. Numerous schools of thought consider these two with a unique perspective. As far as clinical psychology is concerned, it follows the same principles as their approach. It is difficult to understand these two things from a technical standpoint. However, psychological abuse includes emotional abuse as well.
An In-Depth Look at the Four-Part Cycle
The cycle is divided into four stages:
Building Tension - Abusive partners often lash out in response to external stressors.
An Incident of Abuse - By attempting to gain control over others, the abuser releases this tension.
Reconciliation - Tension gradually begins to diminish after the incident of abuse.
Calm - For peace and harmony to be maintained, both parties generally have to offer some sort of explanation or justification for the abuse.
Over time, this cycle repeats itself. It holds true for any type of abuse, especially when it involves emotions.
Abuse of the Mind is as Damaging as Abuse of the Body
The emotional scar left behind is not like a physical scar; it may bleed forever. These emotional scars have led to depression and other psychological problems in the long run. Victims of abuse are usually manipulated and controlled by their abusers. A simple act of negligence or the use of nicknames like ‘pumpkin’ can also be considered psychological abuse, as this too damages the victim.
Interactive Sessions are Helpful
Some psychologists claim that many of these problems can be solved with mere interaction. Sometimes, even the abuser will be unaware of the intensity of his actions on the victim. After an in-depth conversation, the issues have been clarified and resolved.
97% of the time, physical abusers are also involved in psychological abuse. Abusers try to control their victims using any means possible. Women and children are usually targeted. This may include workplace violence and domestic violence.
Effect of Abuse on Women and Children
Women who are subjected to this abuse are more likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. In the presence of women who yell at every man they meet, this is of particular significance. Their method of calming themselves is by doing this.
Today, child abuse is one of the most alarming psychological issues. An example of this is a child who throws tantrums or hates their parents. As a result of abuse, the child may become an anti-social element. Social health suffers as a result. Psychological abuse, therefore, gains in importance since mental health is essential for happiness.
Written By - Dr. Nayana Shree Suresh
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