Emotional maltreatment is defined by state law and is usually indicated by a combination of behavioral indicators including speech disorder; lags in physical development; failure to thrive; hyperactive/disruptive behavior; sallow, empty facial appearance; habit disorder ( sucking, biting, rocking); conduct/learning disorders; neurotic traits (sleep disorder, inhibition of play, unusual fearfulness); behavioral extremes; overly adaptive behavior ( inappropriately adult or infantile); developmental lags; attempted suicide. Resource Parents help children heal from emotional maltreatment. They also may serve as models, teachers or mentors to parents to prevent future emotional maltreatment.