INTRODUCTION
Gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the world’s greatest scourges. World health organization (WHO) has reported a 500% increase in gender-based violence since the onset of the COVID-19 lockdown in South Africa, with isolation and restrictions on movement attributed as factors.
Emotional abuse is described as “a set of behaviours in which the offender taunts, shames, and essentially instils fear in a person to control them” by Psychology Today. This abuse can alter the person’s perception of themselves and interpret the abuse as a reflection of themselves.
The primary distinction between emotional and physical abuse is that the former does not result in visible bodily damage. The mental health industry in our nation is undeveloped and underfunded. If emotional abuse is not stopped, victims may become helpless and confused.
Signs of emotional abuse
While we frequently associate physical assault with the immediacy of abuse, other types, such as mental abuse, maybe just as devastating.
- Criticism – the victim’s actions are constantly under unconstructive scrutiny, and their personality is made to feel inadequate.
- Silent treatment – where the other person refuses to communicate their feelings; this can be done to punish the other person.
- Hurtful words – we know the saying ‘’words can be more powerful than a double-edged sword’’ – abusers use words to manipulate and crush another person’s spirit.
- Control – this can be used in several ways by the abuser, for instance, controlling your social activities, daily human interactions (Whom you see), invasion of boundaries (checking your cell phone, emails, movements, etc.)
Options for the abused
An abusive relationship can lower your self-esteem and make leaving it harder for you. A victim may also experience depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts for people who find themselves in this situation. The South African Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998 provides an outline of protection according to the law. It covers all forms of domestic violence, including physical, verbal, emotional, and psychological abuse. It allows victims options such as a protection order from the perpetrator. Many victims cannot report their cases to the South African Police Services, and other forms of help are available in these instances.
The developmental sector plays a critical role in helping victims; some of these organisations include POWA (People Opposing Women Abuse, The Family Crisis Foundation, and many others. They openly help victims with the psychological and physical help that may be needed depending on the situation.
Finally, emotional abuse has long-lasting detrimental psychological and physiological consequences. It becomes essential to take stock of the kind of relations you have with your partner, and if you identify one or any other of these indicators, it is crucial to get help.
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