New research from Wingate University and University College London suggests that parents or caregivers who yell at their children may be causing long-term harm to their mental and physical health. The study, published in the journal Child Abuse & Neglect, reviewed 166 prior studies on childhood maltreatment. The researchers found that childhood verbal abuse, specifically yelling and screaming, falls into the category of emotional abuse and can have negative effects throughout a child’s lifetime. The study authors emphasized that these types of actions can be as damaging as physical and sexual abuse. They also noted that emotional abuse often goes undetected because it is not visible outside of closed environments.
Dr. Zachary Ginder, a psychological consultant, explained that emotional abuse, including verbal abuse, is often more prevalent than other types of maltreatment but is difficult to identify due to a lack of consistent measurement methods. Verbal abuse can take various forms, including intimidation, hostility, and degradation.
The review identified various outcomes associated with childhood verbal abuse, such as emotional and mental distress, behavioral disorders, substance use, neurobiological changes, and physical health impacts. The most commonly reported outcomes across the studies were depression, aggression, behavioral disorders, substance use, anger, COPD, and delinquent behavior.
Study author Shanta R. Dube, PhD, emphasized the hidden nature of childhood verbal abuse and the need for greater awareness and prevention. Dr. Shana Johnson, a physician, recognized the importance of recognizing verbal abuse as a form of childhood emotional abuse, as it raises awareness of the harmful effects of words. In conclusion, the researchers recommended building awareness, providing skills to parents and teachers, and intervening early in cases of verbal abuse.
The study review had some limitations, including not accounting for geographical or cultural factors and not examining verbal abuse among peers or romantic partners. The researchers acknowledged the need for better frameworks, definitions, and terminology. The study was commissioned by Words Matter, a charity focused on preventing childhood verbal abuse.
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