User:Pinkpassionfruit/sandbox

The impact on self-worth and self-esteem of persons being abused.

In the context of intimate abusive relationships, individuals including Carmen Machado often experience a profound erosion of self-worth and self-esteem. The repeated emotional and verbal abuse can make victims feel bad about themselves and make them internalize negative beliefs about themselves. The continuous harsh treatment leaves the victim feeling like they are not good enough, leading to feelings of shame and unworthiness. Staying in such relationships may stem from a distorted perception of self-value, where the victims like Machado may believe they deserve the mistreatment or that it is the best they can hope for. Over time, this can create a cycle of self-doubt. Breaking free from these relationships and rebuilding self-worth often requires support, therapy, and a gradual rediscovery of one's strengths and value as an individual. The journey toward healing involves challenging and reframing the negative beliefs during the abusive relationship. Experiencing abuse is extremely devastating and can significantly destroy a person’s self-worth and self- esteem. Research shows that abusers often isolate the victim, cutting them off from friends and family. This isolation worsens the person's self-esteem as they feel disconnected from the outside world. Without positive interactions, the negative beliefs imposed by the abuser may stay with the victim. Consequently, the person's self-worth gets tied to the abusive relationship, making it hard for them to leave due to fear of loneliness or a belief that they will not find acceptance elsewhere.

The impact of domestic violence on women’s self-esteem and self-worth is so deep, it can leave lasting emotional scars and hinder a woman’s ability to rebuild her life after leaving an abusive relationship. Recognizing and addressing the effects of domestic violence on self-esteem and self-worth is crucial in supporting survivors on their journey towards healing and reclaiming their sense of self

And one quote by Beverly Engel says, "With emotional abuse, the insults, insinuations, criticism, and accusations slowly eat away at the victim’s self-esteem until he or she is incapable of judging a situation realistically. He or she may begin to believe that there is something wrong with them or even fear they are losing their mind. They have become so beaten down that they blame themselves for the abuse.”

Portrayal of a "Choose your Own Adventure Dreamhouse"

Self Esteem Affirmations

Here is a list of daily affirmations a victim of abuse can repeat daily. These affirmations are a way to slowly rebuild your self-worth.

1	I am worthy of love and respect.
2	I deserve to be treated with kindness and understanding.
3	My worth is not determined by someone else’s actions or words.
4	I am strong, resilient, and capable of healing.
5	I release the guilt and shame that does not belong to me.
6	I deserve a life free from fear and harm.
7	I am valuable and I deserve a life free from fear and harm.
8	I am not defined by the past; I have the power to shape my ideas.
9	I choose to prioritize my well-being and happiness.
10	I trust in my ability to rebuild and rediscover my true self.

Portrayal of a dreamlike image of an isolated Dreamhouse

Word Search Activity

A little word search activity for you to try! :)

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Rebuild                         Deserve                            Boundaries

Self-Worth                       Happiness                            Respect                                  

Healing                            Growth                                Love

The link to the word search solution:  [1]

https://1drv.ms/w/s!AvLA0U7rGLc0gki2UDunTDgponvp

Long lasting effects of persons who stay in intimate abusive relationships.  

Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, is a serious issue that many face daily. Even after the violence has ended, the mental and emotional impact of the experience remain. Such abuse can severely affect individuals who experience it, impacting their physical and mental health. Research indicates that more women than men experience intimate partner violence each year. Victims like Machado may feel confusion, fear, powerlessness, shame, guilt, and anxiety.  

Have you ever heard of battered woman syndrome? According to search, battered woman syndrome (BWS) is a psychological trauma that results from ongoing physical, physiological and/ or sexual abuse typically at the hands of an intimate partner. Besides that, this syndrome can also result in the development of a “survival personality,” in which the person acts out of fear and attempts to avoid further harm. This takes us back to when the protagonist in Dreamhouse says that “she forgot that leaving is an option”, it reflects a moment where she grapples with the idea of leaving her very own abusive relationship. After feeling isolated she finally wanted to leave, perhaps due to fear.