Emotional abuse is a type of psychological manipulation where the abuser uses tactics to control and manipulate their partner’s emotions and thoughts. The emotional abuser’s trap can be broken down into seven stages:
- Love Bombing: The emotional abuser will shower their partner with love, affection, and compliments. This stage is where the emotional abuser gains the trust and affection of their partner.
- Isolation: The emotional abuser will try to isolate their partner from their family and friends. They may make their partner feel guilty for spending time with loved ones or make it difficult for them to see their friends and family.
- Gaslighting: The emotional abuser will use gaslighting tactics to make their partner doubt their own thoughts, feelings, and memories. They may deny that certain events ever happened, or accuse their partner of being overly sensitive or crazy.
- Guilt Tripping: The emotional abuser will use guilt as a way to control their partner’s behavior. They may make their partner feel guilty for things that are beyond their control or make them feel responsible for the abuser’s feelings.
- Emotional Blackmail: The emotional abuser will use emotional blackmail to control their partner. They may threaten to harm themselves or others if their partner doesn’t comply with their demands.
- Degradation: The emotional abuser will degrade their partner by insulting them, belittling them, or making them feel inadequate. This stage is designed to break down the victim’s self-esteem and make them feel dependent on the abuser for validation.
- Domination: The emotional abuser will try to dominate every aspect of their partner’s life. They may control what their partner wears, who they talk to, and how they spend their time. This stage is designed to exert complete control over the victim and make them feel powerless.
It is important to note that emotional abuse is a serious form of abuse that can have long-term effects on the victim’s mental health and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional abuse, it is important to seek help from a trusted friend, family member, or professional.
