Emotional abuse of a child may constitute child abuse and be the basis for criminal charges. Because of the potential adverse effects on children, courts take issues of emotional abuse of children seriously, and a history of emotional abuse of the child may have a significant impact on the court’s determination of what custody arrangement is in the best interest of the child.
In New York, emotional abuse of a child is considered a serious form of child maltreatment and can lead to criminal charges. Emotional abuse includes acts such as verbal abuse, rejection, threats, isolation, and other behaviors that may impair a child's emotional development or self-worth. The New York Family Court Act recognizes emotional abuse as a factor in child protective proceedings. When determining custody arrangements, New York courts prioritize the best interest of the child, which includes a thorough assessment of the child's safety and well-being. A history of emotional abuse by a parent can significantly influence the court's custody decisions, potentially leading to supervised visitation or the limitation of parental rights to ensure the child's emotional health and safety.