Emotional abuse
Abusive conduct that harms, intimidates, humiliates, controls, threatens, or undermines a person's emotional or psychological wellbeing in a domestic relationship.
Definition
Emotional abuse can include threats, humiliation, coercive control, isolation, repeated intimidation, degrading messages, monitoring, or conduct affecting children and safety. The practical review should focus on patterns, incident dates, messages, witnesses, counselling or medical records where available, child impact, and whether urgent protection is needed.
Key takeaways
Abusive conduct that harms, intimidates, humiliates, controls, threatens, or undermines a person's emotional or psychological wellbeing in a domestic relationship.
Family Law
Book Family Law Lawyer
Related legal problems
This glossary provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
Common situations
Emotional abuse
Domestic violence concern
Protection order application
Related resources
Resources and guides
Divorce Checklist
Preparation checklist for divorce process, settlement, parenting, and maintenance issues.
Family LawPreparation PackParenting Plan Preparation Pack
Preparation pack for care, contact, schooling, holidays, communication, and parenting-plan discussion points.
Family LawCourt Process ResourceCriminal Charge Preparation Checklist
Court preparation checklist for charge details, bail documents, witness information, and first appearance planning.
Criminal LawFAQs
Emotional abuse FAQs
What does Emotional abuse mean?
Abusive conduct that harms, intimidates, humiliates, controls, threatens, or undermines a person's emotional or psychological wellbeing in a domestic relationship.
Find legal help
Lawyers and firms
Need help with family law?
Use this term as context, then compare relevant lawyers or law firms for your next step.
