A growing body of neuroscience and child-development research warns that verbal abuse from parents can alter a child’s developing brain and affect mental health for years. Leading experts shared these findings with policymakers in the UK, prompting renewed calls for action and broader public awareness about verbal maltreatment as a serious form of child abuse.
For Thai families, educators, and society, the message is clear: emotional safety is as crucial as physical safety for a child’s growth. In Thailand, where respect for elders and hierarchical family dynamics are deeply rooted, language used at home, in temples, and in classrooms can profoundly influence a child’s self-worth, relationships, and resilience.
New findings summarized by major UK researchers show that sustained shouting and demeaning language can produce measurable brain changes in children. Functional MRI studies indicate that repeated hostile verbal interactions affect both the brain’s threat and reward circuits, shaping how children perceive the world. The result can be heightened fear, misread social cues, social withdrawal, or defensive outbursts. Over time, these patterns may contribute to anxiety, depression, and difficulties forming healthy relationships.
The World Health Organization recognizes emotional and verbal abuse as core forms of child maltreatment. A 2023 UK survey cited by researchers found that a significant portion of children experience verbal aggression from adults, a figure that likely varies across cultures and settings.
Historically overlooked, verbal abuse is now receiving attention as a factor with potentially equal impact to physical harm. A senior neuroscientist at a leading London institution noted that words can harm a child’s wellbeing and development, leaving lasting psychological scars. Another expert emphasized that harsh language can weaken the brain’s development, underscoring the need for kind, supportive communication to build identity and emotional resilience.
Research also shows that repeated shouting triggers stress pathways in the brain, disrupting neural circuits involved in self-esteem and social adaptation. The takeaway is simple: consistent emotional safety supports healthier mental health trajectories.
In Thailand, youth mental health concerns and pressures in schools are rising. The latest neuroscience reinforces the risk that harsh disciplinary practices may do more harm than good, fostering fear, anxiety, and insecurity rather than growth and confidence.
Importantly, experts stress that verbal abuse is preventable. Unlike many risks, the power to change words and tone lies with every adult. Positive, encouraging communication can help children rebound from setbacks and grow into resilient adults, while harsh language can distort a young person’s sense of self and place in the world.
These insights extend beyond the home. Verbal discipline appears in Thai schools and some religious education contexts. With the brain’s biology influenced by language, educators and policymakers should integrate emotional safety into curricula, teacher training, and family support services.
There are parallels worldwide as campaigns push for formal recognition of verbal abuse in policy. In the UK, initiatives like the “Words Matter” campaign raise visibility. Thailand can adapt successful international approaches through the Department of Mental Health and child-welfare organizations to promote mindful, respectful communication.
Looking ahead, expanding mental health literacy for parents and teachers, launching nationwide anti-bullying programs focused on communication, and embedding emotional wellbeing in schools can drive meaningful change. Community resources, including temple youth programs and public health seminars, can promote mindful communication as a core value.
Ultimately, new research invites Thai society to prioritize kind, respectful language in all spaces where children learn and grow. Parents, teachers, and caregivers hold significant influence over the next generation. Every word matters.
For families seeking support, Thailand’s Department of Mental Health offers counseling resources and family communication workshops. Schools are encouraged to provide teacher training in positive discipline and to foster open conversations with students about emotional safety.
Sources (integrated within the article):
- Research by UK experts on brain changes from verbal abuse
- World Health Organization recognition of emotional and verbal abuse
- Studies published in peer-reviewed journals on childhood stress and neural development
- International campaigns and local Thai mental health initiatives