Emotional & Psychological Abuse
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When harm isn’t physical but still causes pain
Not all harm leaves visible bruises.
Sometimes the most damaging experiences are emotional, psychological, and difficult for others to see.
Parents often tell us:
“I knew something wasn’t right, but I couldn’t explain it.”
If your child seems withdrawn, anxious, isolated, or emotionally distressed because of how they are being treated by others, it is important to take those concerns seriously.
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Emotional and psychological abuse involves behaviours that repeatedly undermine a person’s confidence, wellbeing, sense of safety, or self-worth.
It can happen within:
Friendships
Peer groups
School environments
Sports clubs
Online communities
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Examples
✓ Deliberate exclusion
✓ Friendship manipulation
✓ Humiliation
✓ Public embarrassment
✓ Constant criticism
✓ Coercive friendships
✓ Emotional blackmail
✓ Gaslighting
✓ Controlling behaviour
✓ Social isolation
✓ Ongoing intimidation
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Parents often notice changes before they fully understand the cause.
If your child seems different, it is worth exploring why.
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Choose calm moments and ask open questions such as:
“How are things with your friends?”
“Is there anything worrying you?”
“Do you feel safe and supported?”
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Children may struggle to explain emotional harm.
Avoid rushing to solve the problem immediately.
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If incidents are ongoing, keep notes about:
What has happened
Who is involved
How it is affecting your child
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You may notice:
Loss of confidence
Anxiety
Mood changes
Social withdrawal
Sleep difficulties
Changes in appetite
Reluctance to attend school
Increased emotional sensitivity
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How can I support my child?
Reassure them
Let them know:
“You deserve to be treated with kindness.”
“You are not the problem.”
“I am here for you.”
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Help rebuild confidence
Encourage:
Positive friendships
Activities they enjoy
Safe adults they trust
Seek support early
Emotional harm can have long-term effects if left unaddressed.
Early support often makes a significant difference.
Recommended Support Organisations
Support and guidance for children and families experiencing harm.
Best for:
General safeguarding concerns
Advice for parents
Understanding next steps
Practical and emotional support for victims of crime.
Best for:
Emotional recovery
Understanding available support
Guidance after an assault
Confidential support for children and young people.
Best for:
Children who want to speak to someone independently
Emotional support
Mental health support for young people and families.
Best for:
Anxiety
Trauma responses
Emotional wellbeing
Parent
Stories
Many parents tell us:
“I thought this only happened to us.”
You’re not alone.
Read anonymised stories from other parents who have navigated similar experiences.
Related Support
What Mine2 is
Mine2 is a parent-first initiative from Be Charity Group.
We support parents and caregivers whose children have experienced bullying, peer harm, or violence - by helping them understand their options and find the right support at the right time.