The silent treatment is a form ofemotional abuse.
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When Is the Silent Treatment Abusive?
Emotional abuse is a series of behaviors and actions that are meant to erode a persons self-esteem and self-worth.
PhotoAlto/Frederic Cirou / Getty Images
Over time, that behavior can make people more dependent on an abuser.
The silent treatment is when one person refuses to talk to or otherwise communicate with someone else.
This is known as silent treatment abuse.
Heres how you might know whether the silent treatment youre experiencing is one of the signs of emotional abuse.
Why Does the Silent Treatment Hurt So Much?
Research shows that being excluded activates the same areas of the brain as when you experience physical abuse.
Humans are social creatures, so being intentionally excluded can be extremely hurtful.
Control
Emotional abuse is carried out, at least in part, to control a persons behavior.
Oftentimes, emotional abusers use their actions to make their target feel “less than.”
These actions can also be used to make a run at make someone dependent on an abuser.
If someone is giving you the silent treatment to control your actions, they are using silent treatment abuse.
It may prevent you from accidentally doing or saying something hurtful.
What to Do
If someone is emotionally abusing you, it is not your fault.
Nothing you say or do should cause someone to use silent treatment abuse against you.
You are not alone.
How to Get Help
Emotional abuse is abuse.
Let them know that it feels hurtful and abusive.
Set Expectations
Set clear rules for communication with other people in your life, especially during arguments.
For example, its OK to take time to cool off, but set limits.
You could agree to make room for an hour-long time out from an argument.
Establish Boundaries
Set boundaries about silent treatment abuse.
Let the other person know what the consequences will be if they continue to give you the silent treatment.
When your boundaries are violated, see to it that you stick to them and take action.
Reach out to a trusted healthcare provider or mental health professional for support.
If you are experiencing emotional abuse, reach out to someone you trust for help.
Relationships Australia.Is giving your partner the silent treatment ever ok?
APA.The pain of social rejection.
