Survey results reveal the impact of emotional abuse on children with functional impairments

As part of the project"Holistic — providing comprehensive support services to children with motor disabilities to reduce the risks and consequences of emotional abuse", a survey was carried out that provides important insight into the everyday experiences of children and young people with functional impairments and the impact of emotional abuse on their wellbeing.

The aim of the survey and its participants

The aim of the survey was to identify the forms of emotional abuse and to assess their impact on the emotional wellbeing and self-confidence of children and young people. The study involved44 children and young people with motor, visual and hearing impairments, representing various age groups and genders. The diversity of participants made it possible to identify common trends as well as specific problems in different target groups.

The prevalence of emotional abuse

The survey results indicate thatemotional abuse is widespreadand affects almost all groups of respondents regardless of the type of functional impairment. The most frequently mentioned forms of emotional abuse are:

• hurtful comments about appearance or abilities,
• negative looks and a disdainful attitude,
• being ignored and avoidance of communication,
• deliberate exclusion from social activities,
• constant criticism and comparison with others.

Many respondents emphasise that emotional abuse often takes the form not of open name-calling, but rather ofsilent rejection and social exclusion, particularly in educational settings and public spaces.

Everyday attitudes and the feeling of exclusion

The survey reveals that a significant proportion of children experience, in their daily lives,being treated differently, which creates a persistent sense of not belonging. Being ignored, not being spoken to or not being invited to take part in shared activities is experienced as a painful and lasting emotional experience. Respondents acknowledge that such treatment is often not recognised as abuse, yet its impact is very significant.

The impact on self-confidence and emotional health

One of the most important conclusions is thatemotional abuse has a significant impact on children's self-confidence. Respondents point to:

• low self-esteem,
• fear of speaking up and taking part in social situations,
• anxiety, sadness and emotional withdrawal,
• reduced motivation in studies and social life.

Repeated negative treatment builds a belief that the child is "worthless" or "different", which in the long term can affect their development and future opportunities.

Seeking help and support

Some respondents have sought help from psychologists, family members or friends, yet the survey shows thatnot everyone dares to ask for support. The main barriers mentioned are the fear of not being understood and the belief that the situation cannot be changed. This points to the need to make support services more accessible and the environment safe and non-stigmatising.

Key conclusions

The survey results clearly show that emotional abuse against children and young people with functional impairments isa systemic and everyday problem, whose consequences are deep and long-lasting. Respondents most strongly emphasise the need for:

• regular psychological support,
• greater public education about emotional abuse and inclusion,
• a coordinated, holistic approach that combines individual support with a change in attitudes across society.

The data obtained provides an important basis for further project activities and confirms thatreducing emotional abuse requires purposeful action, cooperation and an empathetic attitude from society as a whole.

Project No. 4.3.6.4/2/24/A/002

Implementation period:December 2025 – March 2027

The aim of the project is to provide comprehensive support — rehabilitation, psychological support and social inclusion — to children and young people with motor disabilities, with a particular focus on reducing the risks of emotional abuse. The project is funded by Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway through the EEA financial instruments, in cooperation with support from the Latvian state.

The association Latvian Children with Motor Disabilities has begun work on the project "Holistic — a comprehensive view of the impact of emotional abuse on the everyday lives of people with visual, hearing or motor impairments who have suffered abuse".

Often, when we talk about abuse, attention is focused on physical harm, yet emotional abuse — invisible and without material evidence — frequently goes unnoticed. It affects especially severely children and young people with visual, hearing or motor impairments, who in everyday life face society's rejecting attitudes and being ignored.

The aim of the project is to understand and help improve the situation of people with visual, hearing or motor impairments who have suffered abuse, in recognising situations of emotional abuse, by developing a new/adapted set of support services to reduce the consequences of emotional abuse.

Main activities

• Conducting a survey to understand the prevalence and impact of emotional abuse.
• Developing a new comprehensive support service — consultations with a psychologist, physiotherapist and occupational therapist.
• Group sessions for children/young people to raise awareness of emotional abuse.
• Support sessions for family members to reduce the consequences of emotional abuse.

Expected results

• A new set of support services developed to reduce the risks of emotional abuse.
• Lectures and group sessions for children/young people and families to provide long-term support.
• Increased physical activity, self-motivation and social integration of children/young people.

The total cost of the project is EUR 115,871.20, of which the maximum European Social Fund Plus (hereinafter ESF+) funding is EUR 98,490.52, and the state budget co-financing is EUR 17,380.68.

Project No. 4.3.6.4/2/24/A/002

Implementation period: December 2025 – March 2027

We invite those interested/participants to apply for the project's activities by contacting Ilze Kenne, Chair of the Board of the association "Latvian Children with Motor Disabilities", phone 29460606