Wisconsin CNA State Exam Vocabulary Practice

What is the primary feature of "emotional abuse"?

1. Emotional lability

2. Empathy

3. Verbal abuse

4. Expelling solid wastes

The correct answer is: Verbal abuse

Emotional abuse primarily involves behaviors that undermine a person's self-esteem and emotional well-being. Verbal abuse is a significant component of emotional abuse, as it can include insults, threats, constant criticism, and other forms of destructive communication. These actions can lead to psychological harm, creating an environment where a person feels worthless, fearful, or isolated. While emotional lability, empathy, and the expelling of solid wastes are relevant in different contexts, they do not accurately define or capture the essence of emotional abuse. Emotional lability refers to rapid changes in emotional states, which can be a result of various factors but is not a feature of emotional abuse itself. Empathy involves the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, which is typically a positive trait and not related to the harm caused by emotional abuse. Finally, the expelling of solid wastes is related to bodily functions and health care, with no connection to emotional or psychological abuse.