Psychological Impact of Emotional Abuse in Indian Literary Narratives
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Abstract
Emotional abuse and psychological trauma are significant themes in Indian literary narratives, particularly in the works of Indian women writers who focus on the inner emotional lives of female characters. Emotional abuse, unlike physical violence, often occurs in subtle forms such as neglect, humiliation, domination, and suppression of a woman’s voice within family and social structures. These experiences frequently lead to psychological distress, identity conflicts, and emotional isolation. This study explores the psychological impact of emotional abuse as portrayed in the novels of select Indian women writers and examines how these narratives reflect the social realities of women living in patriarchal societies. Indian women novelists have played an important role in revealing the emotional struggles and mental suffering faced by women due to gender discrimination and restrictive cultural expectations. Writers such as Anita Desai, Shashi Deshpande, and Manju Kapur depict female protagonists who experience loneliness, emotional neglect, and psychological conflict within marital and familial relationships. Their works illustrate how continuous emotional suppression and social pressure can lead to anxiety, depression, and loss of self-identity. These narratives not only portray women’s suffering but also highlight their resilience and gradual search for self-awareness and independence. The study adopts a qualitative and analytical approach by examining selected literary texts through the perspective of feminist literary criticism. Through close textual analysis, the research investigates how emotional abuse is represented in narrative structures, characterization, and thematic development. The study also explores how literature reflects broader social issues such as patriarchy, gender inequality, and the marginalization of women’s voices. Overall, the research emphasizes that Indian literary narratives provide a powerful platform for understanding the psychological consequences of emotional abuse. By highlighting women’s inner struggles and emotional experiences, these works contribute to greater awareness of mental health, gender justice, and the importance of recognizing emotional well-being in society.
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