Emotional abuse is a complex and often misunderstood phenomenon. While not officially recognized in the current psychiatric nomenclature, emotional abuse is commonly used to describe an array of egregious interpersonal dynamics centering on control, manipulation and/or humiliation. However, the term is also applied to traumatic situations experienced by children who, in relationship with their parents or primary caretakers, may suffer various and potentially overlapping types of abuse including physical, sexual, and/or psychological. Among experts, there is a fair amount of confusion concerning the distinguishing features of emotional abuse vs. other forms of abuse, as well as differing opinions about how, and to what extent, healing from emotional abuse is possible. In the next virtual meeting of the Relationship Group Seminar on Saturday, January 15, 2022 (11:45 AM to 1:00 PM), we will address the common signs of emotional abuse, including factors differentiating emotional abuse from other types of interpersonal experiences. Various forms of emotional abuse including gaslighting and projection will also be discussed. The qualities often present among emotional abusers including jealousy, and the main strategies they frequently employ such as setting forth unrealistic expectations and “emotional blackmail,” will be explored. Finally, the consequences of emotional abuse, including physical, emotional, and psychiatric issues and conditions, will be considered along with approaches to recovery.

*Registration Directions: If you would like to attend the next virtual meeting of the Relationship Group Seminar on Saturday, January 15, 2022, 11:45 AM to 1:00 PM, please RSVP to me at 949-338-4388 or jt@jamestobinphd.com no later than Thursday, January 13, 2022. The fee is $25.00 (payable before entering the virtual meeting) and informed consent for participation in this telehealth event must be completed prior to the seminar. Please note that the Relationship Group Seminar is psychoeducational in nature, not therapeutic, and does not constitute psychotherapy or counseling.