Understanding emotional abuse What is emotional abuse? Why is emotional abuse so common? Why is emotional abuse so damaging? Types of emotional abuse Emotional abuse through words Emotional abuse through actions Emotional abuse through neglect Spiritual abuse: the Bible as bludgeon The effects of emotional abuse The effects on sense of self The physical effects The effects on relationships Overcoming emotional abuse Recognizing your abuse and its effects Getting over the past and living for the future A time to heal: restoring your self Emotional abuse checklist