What is covert emotional abuse: Ending Cycles of Abuse in Sports.
It is imperative that gymnasts and those who work with and support gymnasts, learn to recognise and prevent all forms of abuse in gymnastics. Covert emotional abuse (CEA) is almost always the initial form of abuse, and it all too often leads to physical and sexual abuse. CEA is a tightly woven, almost invisible spider’s web meant to ensnare and control the victim. There are a number of indicators of covert emotional abuse including, The emotional trap of specialness, the cultivation of fear, self-blame, self-doubt and dependency, the alternation of love-bombing and shaming, the demonisation of those who raise concerns and associated demands for social ostracisation.