#ChildhoodAbuse

A recent study published in Dreaming reveals a strong link between childhood emotional abuse or neglect and more frequent nightmares among young adults. Research suggests that early emotional maltreatment can imprint lasting psychological scars, with rumination and social support shaping how severely dreams are affected. For Thai audiences, these findings highlight the need for broader awareness of emotional health within families, schools, and communities.

Nightmares are not just distressing bedtime stories; they can signal ongoing trauma. In Thailand, where family harmony and social harmony are valued, openly addressing emotional health remains challenging. This study underscores how subtle forms of maltreatment—without visible bruises—can influence mental health well into adulthood.

A groundbreaking study recently published in the journal Dreaming finds that young adults who experienced emotional abuse and neglect during childhood are significantly more likely to suffer frequent nightmares and bad dreams. This research sheds new light on the hidden long-term mental health scars left by emotional maltreatment, and offers important insights for families, educators, and mental health professionals in Thailand and beyond (psypost.org, psycnet.apa.org).

Nightmares and disturbing dreams aren’t just childhood fears—they can be serious symptoms of lingering trauma. For Thai society, where family harmony and emotional well-being are vital yet discussions of emotional health can be challenging, this study underscores the urgent need for greater awareness of the subtle damages caused by emotional abuse. Unlike physical abuse, emotional maltreatment leaves no bruises, but its effects can be just as profound, affecting victims’ psychological health well into adulthood.