Neglect-The Silent Abuser: How to Recognize and Heal from Childhood Neglect

by Enod Gray

Neglect-The Silent Abuser is a self-help book designed to help the reader know what to look for to recognize neglect and to heal from the effects of it. Neglect is often a hidden issue in the lives of people who experience problems with trust, relationships, depression, addictions, anxiety, and a generalized feeling of not “being enough.” On the outside neglected people look like they have it all together, but inside is a gnawing emptiness that is felt when they cannot distract themselves enough to avoid it. A list of high-risk family systems and numerous case examples help the reader to identify what neglect looks and feels like. This book also addresses the issue of over-control, which is an unrecognized part of neglect in those who were not allowed to have their own thoughts and feelings. Enod Gray has learned in practicing therapy and counseling for over 20 years, that many people seek help feeling bewildered about the problems in their lives and not realizing they were neglected. Once this root problem is recognized and addressed, the dysfunctional behaviors can come to awareness and be resolved. Eleven solution steps are provided for guidance and awareness on the path to healing, leading to a life of freedom and happiness. Enod Gray is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Sex Addiction Therapist, Professional Life Coach, and EMDR Practitioner in private practice. She specializes in childhood neglect and trauma, addictions, intimacy and relationship problems.

Genres: Psychology

216 pages, Paperback

Published February 13, 2019

Reviews

[Nate Bate · Rating 3 out of 5]

The core concept that in this book, that neglect is usually an unnoticed form of abuse in someone's life, is a critical concept for us to consider. After Enod Gray lays this out, she then begins to connect it to other issues - the primary one being addictions. She does an excellent job going below the surface and pulling out the full repertoire of tools the world of psychology offers; yet, she does this in an accessible way. Most readers will not feel like this is a textbook, yet for those who would like the academics of this, Enod sites other helpful sources occasionally as well. She also has a good balance of story, diagnostic, and analysis.

Occasionally Enod Gray takes aim a churches and spiritual institutions, although this is not overdone. Her points are valid and worthy of consideration. From a biblical perspective, there are some things to disagree with. That said, I still found great value in reading this and considering the main points she has to offer.

[Joseph Krump · Rating 3 out of 5]

So my expectation going into this book, based on its subtitle, was that I would find a step by step approach to healing from childhood neglect. My rating is based largely on the fact that the book didn't meet this expectation. The book also lacked some editing polish which I found surprising, such as missing words in a couple places.

I'd recommend the book as a starting point for someone trying to assess if they were neglected as a child since it does provide helpful things to reflect which helped me increase my self-knowledge. At the very end of the book there are also helpful resources for additional reading and other forms of help. There is also some explanation of different forms of therapy that a person could look further into.

[Lynne McCarrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

No wasted words. Brief, focused, succinct easy read. It describes my own experiences

Brief, focused, succinct, easy read. Describes my own experiences as though I had written it myself. Feels GREAT to finally understand myself, and the fact that I'm not alone in it all. Forward-looking, empowering. So grateful.

[Haynes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Personally at times I found it rambling a lot & repetitive, but for readers who aren’t familiar with psychology or therapy, this would make a good introductory book specifically for childhood neglect.

[Camille Jalandoni · Rating 5 out of 5]

very insightful

The stories shared of real life accounts of neglected children made me feel more connected with my pain. I learned so much from this book around my inner child wounds and how I can heal from them.

[maude krug · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent information.

[Klara Hood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Could Not put it down, found the context very useful and healing it urges me to continue to dig deeper.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book but a bit negative towards Christianity which made it less accessible for me.

[Miriam Zeghmi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Would recommend this to clients. Unlike other mental health books, it's a fluid read.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interestingly, there aren’t many resources available on this topic. I found this book to offer a basic overview and some helpful information, but it lacked depth.