Emotional abuse can happen in any relationship. The definition according to Wikipedia is:
‘Emotional abuse is any kind of abuse that is emotional rather than physical in nature. It can include anything from verbal abuse and constant criticism to more subtle tactics such as intimidation, manipulation, and refusal to ever be pleased. Emotional abuse can take many forms.’
Unlike physical abuse it can be extremely subtle yet the long term effects are often far more reaching and extreme.
Confidence and self esteem are eroded away; anxiety, depression and PTSD are common and survivors (I refuse to call anybody who escapes an abusive relationship a victim) often have to deal with a whole host of psychological barriers in future relationships.
The following collection of articles range from identifying the abuse, dealing with and leaving an abusive person and staying safe.