Elderly Lives Matter®

Control Is Often the Real Goal of Emotional Abuse

On Behalf of | Jul 3, 2019 | Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Has your loved one suffered emotional abuse in a nursing home? Perhaps it never went beyond that, or maybe the emotional abuse was just the first step, and it then turned into financial or physical abuse as well. Regardless, you may find yourself wondering why it happened. Why would a staff member do such a thing?

There are many potential reasons for emotional abuse, and every situation is unique. However, experts note that the main goal is usually to gain control.

The employee who abused your loved one was in a position of power. They were trying to demonstrate that power or control your loved one with the abuse. Causing them harm was likely secondary.

This is why emotional abuse often leads to other issues, like financial abuse. Perhaps the worker was just trying to control your loved one for financial gain.

Of course, not every case has a distinct reason or goal like that example. It could just be that the staff member does not feel like they have much control in other areas of their life. They’re trying to gain some by abusing your loved one and taking control of that situation. It makes them feel like they suddenly have power over a situation or another person.

Again, nursing home abuse happens for many reasons. This is just one example. The key is to remember that your loved one has rights. They do not deserve this type of treatment. After any type of abuse — emotional, physical, financial or something else entirely — make sure you are well aware of the legal steps you need to take to seek justice for your loved one.

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