Teenage years are a sacred period that is abounding with illusions, learning, and growth. This is the period when the children search for what they are and exist. But if this vulnerable period is overshadowed by the silent pain of emotional abuse, then its impact can never subside. Unlike physical violence, though, it leaves no bruise, but its wounds cut deep into mind and heart and mold futures in painful ways. One in seven children worldwide suffers some type of emotional abuse, according to the World Health Organization. It may come from parents, teachers, peers, or officials, through criticism, rejection, neglect, intimidation, or manipulation. This silent violence erodes the self-confidence and trust required to develop healthy relationships and self-esteem.

In effect, emotional abuse assaults self-worth. Emotional abuse shows children that they are unwanted and unloved and their feelings don’t count. In those formative years, these messages inflict deep wounds, warping thinking, feeling, and behavior. The most evident damage is a loss of self-trust. When hurtful words become part of the complacent status quo, young minds will start accepting them and get........

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