It's vital to acknowledge abuse for what it is

[belenen]

icon: "analytical (a close-up photo of my eye in bright sunlight, showing the green and grey and roots-looking patterns)"When your parents or childhood caretakers have abused you, it is profoundly important to admit that it was abuse* (at least to yourself), regardless of your current relationship. Childhood is where you get your sense of normal;

Comments

[thesewaters]

I know so many people who have experienced various types and severity of abuse through childhood, and yet the only ones who call it abuse and have sought help are the ones who were in 'undeniable' situations. The way this post is worded is perfect to explain how it doesn't need to be black eyes and starvation for it to be abuse. I have encouraged quite a few friends to explore Raised By Narcissists.

[feladrone]

"Even loving parents can be abusive and often are, because it is common for abuse to stem from a sheer lack of understanding of what is going to be helpful. "

This rings so true to me. Thank you for posting this.

[ragnarok_08]

Late reply, I know, but I'm catching up on your entries now.

My parents were loving and supportive during my childhood, but after my dad died, it was as if something just snapped in my mom. My mom turned to the bottle and became verbally, emotionally, and physically abusive to me and my sister as a result. Even after she herself died, I still have a lot of issues stemming from her abuse, but I'm working on them.

Even loving parents can be abusive and often are, because it is common for abuse to stem from a sheer lack of understanding of what is going to be helpful

Enough said.