Emotional Abuse Among the Elderly: Affecting Behavior Variables

Running Head: Emotional Abuse among the Elderly: Affecting Behavior Variables

Emotional Abuse among the Elderly: Affecting Behavior Variables

Abstract:

Abuse of the elderly can take many forms. This paper will discuss a present study determine some of the behavior variables affecting emotional abuse among the elderly. It examines the variables based on the perceptions of the elderly subjected to emotional abuse.

Emotional Abuse among the Elderly

Abuse of the Elderly can take many forms and the most sinister is emotional abuse. Emotional abuse is often subtle but can have a harmful affect on the individual. Emotional abuse is synonymous with psychological abuse involving similar measures. Often time’s, emotional abuse is already well established before it is discovered. Emotional abuse or psychological abuse can include anxiety, depression, mental distress, intimidation, confusion, distress, and cognitive disorientation. The victim has a difficult time understanding what he/she has done to receive this kind of treatment and leads to mental distress. (Peretti & Majecen, 1991)

Some indications of emotional abuse and other forms of abuse include conduct disorders (anti-social or destructive behavior), habit disorders (sucking or biting). Along with these indications, one might see personality disorders such as, hysteria, phobias, compulsion, and/or hypochondria. If abuse is not resolved, the constant exposure can lead to psychotic conditions. Often times, the elderly victim will seek animal friendship bond rather than a human friendship bond. Elderly abused victims can contact social agencies, clinics, hospitals, or doctor’s offices to receive care and many times these places have programs for discontinuing abuse. (Peretti & Majecen, 1991)

There was a study performed in Illinois with 58 elderly individuals ages 68-87 that were either currently in or had previously engaged in various counseling and treatment for elder abuse. These clients...