This mildly understood mode of abuse is probably the most dangerous and devastating to its victims. This insidious type of abuse inflicts damage upon others lives in relentless and cumulative ways through illegal drug use, alcohol, false teachings, liars, cheaters, in short by those who betray us. A common example of this is when a partner restricts the movements of their other half, basically keeping them away from family and friends. This means isolating them, and not allowing them to communicate nor engage with family or friends for fear of them wising up to what they are going through. In the end they lack confidence, and in the extreme, harm themselves in a desperate bid for attention.

Spiritual (mental and emotional) abuse can be defined as having your creations destroyed by betrayal and treachery, or being betrayed by a loved one. It can also result from loving someone who is dishonest and corrupt, or maybe even someone who perhaps focuses in a narcissistic way on their own mind, body, or even material objects, rather than on the supposed loved one. These selfish abusive partners are more concerned with control, dominance, or playing mind games, than to actually give of themselves to others. They also tend to deny the vast scope of the supposed loved ones spiritual powers, and do not live up to the loved ones’ principles, codes, or virtues.

This form of abuse is more damaging than actual physical abuse as it is hidden, and tends to demolish the dominated partners’ self-esteem. However because there are no obvious signs of abuse, i.e., bruises, etc., this is overlooked. If the injury were visible, the abuser would end up before the court, facing an assault charge. It would also be more difficult to hide from outsiders just what is going on behind closed doors. These cowards that inflict this evil treatment on their so-called loved ones don't deserve to have a partner.

Our Courts of Law, however, do not recognize spiritual and emotional abuse for either gender, making the situation worse for the abused, and therefore the abuser, the coward, continues to inflict this evil treatment on someone they claim to love. (In these cases, male instigators are not often the sole abusers. There is a basketful of female culprits as well.)

Another important aspect of this behavior occurs when there are children in the relationship, as they become exposed to it. The youngsters pick up on the bad vibes between mom and dad, causing them to feel unhappy and confused. Often children blame themselves for the confusing behaviors they witness. To make matters worse, in later life, these children will often repeat the same patterns of behaviors they saw when they were involved in adult relationships.

It becomes clear how the whole family unit can become emotionally abused by one selfish parent. It’s clear that these unfit couples who carry unresolved emotional issues, should think very carefully about having children. Otherwise, it is unfair on the child. In the extreme, couples often believe bringing a baby into the equation will solve the difficulties they are having. This approach is totally misplaced and often brings in a whole host of new problems. A child needs stability in the home, if it has any chance of growing up without emotional problems. Also if a youngster witnesses abusive behavior, then it is likely to inherit these traits in adulthood and it more likely than not develop into a vicious cycle.

The next time your partner disturbs your spirit to the point that you feel a humongous sense of inexplicable pain, run.