[Diagnosis] : Emotional Abuse
In general, all physically or sexually abused children are also emotionally abused. Children whose physical needs are not met, as a result of family dysfunction described above, are generally emotionally abused. Emotional abuse can also occur when physical needs are excessively provided. This includes overprotection of children, overfeeding leading to obesity, and excessive medical care or Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy, described below.
Developmental, behavioral, and emotional needs that are unmet can also result in emotional abuse. Make the diagnosis when the lack of caregiver stimulation results in developmental delays. A child that is overly criticized may be subject to psychological abuse. Sustained and repetitive psychological abuse that damages the developmental potential of the child may include domestic violence, desertion (abandonment), and exploitation.
Lack of affection, resulting in rejection of the child or open verbal hostility towards the child, can be considered emotional neglect. Emotional neglect is difficult to diagnose because it requires that an emotional or psychological problem be diagnosed in a child and that the caregiver be the direct cause of that problem. In most cases of family dysfunction, making a clear determination of the cause of emotional problems is difficult.
