Understanding Emotional Abuse
Rejecting
Refusing to acknowledge a child's presence, value, or worth.
Isolating
Cutting the child off from normal social interactions with peers and adults.
Terrorizing
Creating a climate of fear through bullying, frightening, or threatening behavior.
Corrupting
Encouraging a child to engage in destructive or antisocial behavior.
Signs & Indicators
Recognizing the warning signs is the first step toward protecting a child. Watch for these indicators:
- Overly compliant or demanding behavior
- Extreme passivity or aggression
- Age-inappropriate behaviors (acting too adult or too infantile)
- Delayed physical or emotional development
- Attempted suicide
- Reports a lack of attachment to the parent
What Should You Do?
1
Recognize the Signs
Trust your instincts. If something doesn't seem right, it probably isn't.
2
Call the Hotline
Report your concerns to the Colorado Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline at 844-CO-4-KIDS.
3
Provide Information
Share what you've observed. You don't need proof — trained professionals will investigate.
If Not You, Then Who?
Don't wait. Your call could make the difference in a child's life.
