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 Rhode Island, emotional abuse of a child is considered a serious matter and can be classified as child abuse under state law. Emotional abuse includes acts or omissions by a caregiver that cause or could cause serious behavioral, cognitive, emotional, or mental disorders. This type of abuse is taken into account by the courts, particularly in cases involving the custody of children. When determining custody arrangements, Rhode Island family courts are guided by the best interest of the child standard, which includes the consideration of the child's safety and well-being. A history of emotional abuse by a parent can significantly influence the court's decision on custody and visitation rights, potentially leading to supervised visitation or limited parental rights for the offending parent. Criminal charges may also be pursued under Rhode Island law if the emotional abuse constitutes a form of child abuse or neglect.