E266 - 7 Hidden Signs of Emotional Abuse Most People Miss

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What if the way you were treated growing up wasn’t just “normal”… but actually emotional abuse you were never taught to recognize?

Because here’s the truth—emotional abuse isn’t always loud.

It doesn’t always look like yelling, insults, or obvious control.

Sometimes, it’s the silence.

The subtle digs. The emotional distance. The constant sense that something’s wrong—but you’re the one being “too sensitive.”

And if you grew up in an environment like that—especially with complex trauma—it’s easy to miss the signs entirely… and carry the wounds into adulthood without even knowing it.

In today’s episode, we’re going to talk about:

What emotional abuse really is, and why it matters so much for CPTSD survivors

7 hidden signs that most people overlook—but that shape how we see ourselves and our relationships

And what you can finally do now, as an adult, to start breaking the cycle and healing from it

► Links and Resources:

Avoidant Attachment Style Episode: https://youtu.be/4vs3gDlmS18?si=PS3Bn5WzPQBGVU0U

Disorganized Attachment Style Episode:

https://youtu.be/V5Nn_XOHFX8?si=YbWs2mlPIguVcon2

Healthy Conflict Episode: https://youtu.be/ZhExIeU3Bys?si=KCvnw_AUnEIom2lN

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► Episode Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

01:41 What Is Emotional Abuse And Why Does It Matter So Much For CPTSD Survivors

04:16 Sign 1: Being Shamed For Having Needs Or Emotions

06:35 Sign 2: Conditional Love And Approval

08:28 Sign 3: The Disguised Put-Downs: Jokes That Hurt

10:04 Sign 4: The Silent Treatment As Punishment

12:52 Sign 5: Your Feelings Were Dismissed Or Used Against You

14:55 Sign 6: Feeling Like The “Bad One” For Setting Boundaries

16:28 Sign 7: Emotional Neglect

18:12 What Can You Do About Emotional Abuse And Childhood Trauma?

► Reach Out To Me :)

E-Mail: [e-mail]

► Hi, my name is Robert! I create videos about childhood trauma & attachment theory.

My content aims to help you transform trauma-driven reactions that block you, so you can embrace a life full of happiness, safe & loving relationships, and self-confidence. :)

► Disclaimer: None of the contents are therapeutic or medical recommendations. The contents are not to be understood as therapeutic-medical instructions and are neither intended as professional health advice nor as education.

I am not a health professional myself. My content is based on research and my personal experiences working with various therapists as a client for three years.