The Impact of Emotional Abuse on Women's Lives: Beyond the Private Sphere

Emotional abuse, a subtle yet damaging form of domestic violence, leaves deep psychological scars that profoundly affect women’s lives. Its impact extends beyond the home, affecting every aspect of a woman's life, including her work. The International Labour Organization's (ILO) Convention 190 recognizes that domestic violence, including emotional abuse, is not a private matter but one that can significantly impair a woman's ability to perform her job.

Emotional Abuse: The Silent Struggle of Women

Emotional abuse often manifests through verbal aggression, manipulation, isolation, and control. For women, this type of abuse is particularly devastating, as it intersects with societal expectations, gender norms, and economic realities. The statistics around emotional abuse highlight its prevalence and impact:

• Prevalence of Emotional Abuse: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 1 in 3 women globally have experienced some form of abuse in their lifetime, with emotional abuse being one of the most common forms. In the United States alone, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) reports that 48.4% (which in my opinion needs to be revised of women have experienced at least one psychologically aggressive behavior from an intimate partner.
• Economic Dependency: Studies show that 60% of women experiencing domestic violence, including emotional abuse, report financial abuse, which further entraps them in abusive relationships. This economic dependency makes it harder for women to leave, contributing to the cycle of abuse.
• Mental Health Impact: Research from the American Psychological Association (APA) indicates that women who experience emotional abuse are at a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The effects are long-lasting, with many women struggling to rebuild their lives even after the abuse has ended.

ILO Convention 190: Recognizing the Impact of Domestic Violence on Work

The International Labour Organization's Convention 190, adopted in 2019, is a landmark document that addresses violence and harassment in the world of work. It recognizes that domestic violence, including emotional abuse, is not confined to the home but significantly impacts women's work lives.

Key Statistics and Concepts:

• Workplace Impact: A study by the Australian Bureau of Statistics found that nearly two-thirds of women who experienced domestic violence reported that it affected their work performance, leading to increased absenteeism and decreased productivity. Similarly, the Corporate Alliance Against Domestic Violence in the UK reports that 75% of domestic abuse victims are targeted at work, either through harassment or other controlling behaviors.
• Employer Response: Despite the clear impact of domestic violence on work, only about 30% of employers have a policy in place to address domestic abuse, according to a survey by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) in the UK. This gap highlights the need for more comprehensive support systems in the workplace.

The Dual Burden of Emotional Abuse on Women's Work Lives

For many women, the emotional abuse they endure at home doesn’t stay there—it follows them to work. The psychological toll of abuse, including fear, anxiety, and diminished self-worth, can severely impair a woman’s ability to function professionally. Statistics show that:

• Work Disruption: According to a study by the American Bar Association, 21-60% of domestic violence victims lose their jobs due to reasons stemming from the abuse. This includes emotional abuse, which often leads to difficulties in concentration, chronic absenteeism, and job performance issues.
• Financial Impact: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that intimate partner violence, including emotional abuse, costs $8.3 billion annually in lost productivity and healthcare costs. This financial burden underscores the wide-reaching impact of abuse on both the individual and societal levels.

Breaking the Silence: A Collective Responsibility

Addressing emotional abuse and its impact on women's lives requires collective action from individuals, communities, employers, and policymakers. By recognizing that domestic violence is not just a private matter but a societal issue that affects women's work and economic independence, we can create a more supportive and empathetic environment.

Employers, in particular, play a crucial role in recognizing the signs of emotional abuse and providing resources and support to affected employees. This not only helps women regain control over their lives but also fosters a more inclusive and productive workplace.

By aligning with the principles of ILO Convention 190 and integrating comprehensive workplace policies, we can work towards a future where emotional abuse is recognized, addressed, and prevented—both at home and in the workplace. This will empower women to thrive in all aspects of their lives, free from the shadows of abuse.