The power of love

Emotional abuse, though often less visible than other forms of maltreatment, can have deep and long-lasting impacts on a child’s development.

New research from Act for Kids sheds light on this important issue, revealing that while many Australians recognise emotional abuse as a serious problem, there remains a significant gap in understanding its prevalence and effects.

Emotional abuse is defined as a pattern of behaviour that diminishes a child’s sense of self-worth and emotional health.

This can include actions such as constant criticism, belittling, withholding affection, or ignoring a child’s emotional needs. Unlike physical abuse, which leaves visible marks, emotional abuse scars a child’s emotional and brain development.

It can lead to a range of emotional and psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, and difficulty forming healthy relationships later in life.

National data from 2022–23 shows that emotional abuse is, in fact, the most common form of child maltreatment in Australia, with over half (57%) of the 45,400 confirmed cases of abuse falling under this category.

Despite its prevalence, our research showed that only half of Australians (50%) would feel confident reporting suspected child abuse to authorities. This highlights the urgent need for greater awareness of and education about what constitutes emotional abuse and how to recognise it.

One of the most concerning findings from our research is that nine in ten Australians (90%) underestimate the prevalence of emotional abuse, and one in five (21%) are unaware that withholding love and affection can be a form of this maltreatment.

It’s important to understand that emotional abuse isn’t always intentional; it can happen in any loving and supportive environment. The key is recognising the behaviours that can harm a child’s emotional wellbeing.

Another key finding is that while most Australians (87%) agree emotional abuse is a serious problem, there is still a lack of understanding about its true impact.

This gap in understanding underscores the need for ongoing education and awareness, so we can all be better equipped to recognise when a child might need help.

During Child Protection Week, Act for Kids is focusing on the importance of recognising and addressing emotional abuse. Our goal is to foster environments where children feel safe to express their emotions and where their feelings are validated.

We need to be raising awareness and providing the tools and knowledge to help ensure all children grow up feeling secure and loved.

One of the ways we’re supporting this effort is by launching our Stadium of Hope campaign.

This initiative aims to both raise awareness of the issue and raise funds for children who have experienced abuse and neglect, including emotional abuse.

We encourage everyone to get involved by purchasing virtual tickets, with all proceeds going towards therapy and support services for vulnerable children. By coming together as a community, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for all Australian children.

This week, it’s important to remember that emotional wellbeing is just as crucial as physical health. Emotional abuse may not leave visible scars, but its effects can be deep and lasting.

Act for Kids has also developed the Safe Hearts and Minds tipsheet, a valuable resource offering practical advice on how to recognise the signs of emotional abuse and create a nurturing environment for children.

Let’s commit to being more mindful of the emotional needs of the children in our lives. Together, we can help build a future where all children feel loved, valued and protected.

For more information on recognising and preventing emotional abuse, and to access the Safe Hearts and Minds online tipsheet, as well as other resources and guidance, please visit www.actforkids.com.au.

Dr Katrina Lines joined Act for Kids in 2006, became executive director of services in 2008 and was appointed CEO in 2020. Katrina is a registered psychologist with more than 20 years of experience delivering clinical and social services at the individual, organisational and community level. She has a PhD in children’s cognitive, social and emotional development and postgraduate qualifications in governance, business and education.