TRAUMA
Emotional Neglect
Growing up without adequate emotional attunement leaves gaps that can affect relationships and self-worth well into adulthood.
What is Emotional Neglect?
Emotional neglect happens when a child's emotional needs, to be seen, heard, validated and comforted, are consistently unmet. Unlike active abuse, it is often invisible and hard to name. Adults who experienced it may not recognise it as neglect at all, yet carry its effects.
Do you recognise this?
✓Difficulty identifying or expressing emotions
✓Feeling fundamentally different from others
✓Self-criticism and harsh inner voice
✓Fear of being a burden
✓Emptiness or numbness
✓Difficulty receiving care or compliments
Effective treatments
These approaches are commonly recommended for Emotional Neglect.
Frequently asked questions
My childhood wasn't bad, can I still have emotional neglect?
Yes. Emotional neglect is about what was absent, not what was actively harmful. Many people from 'functional' families experienced it.
Find the right psychologist for Emotional Neglect
Match with a specialist who has experience with Emotional Neglect and start within days.