Childhood Emotional Neglect

The Emotional Algorithm · Oct 19, 2026 · 3m

In this episode, we’re exploring childhood emotional neglect: the experience of growing up without enough emotional attention, understanding, or support. It doesn’t always leave a visible mark. A child may have food, shelter, and caregivers who love them, yet still learn that their feelings are inconvenient, confusing, or best kept private. We’ll look at how those lessons can shape us—and how they can begin to change.

First, emotional neglect is often about what was missing, rather than what happened. A caregiver might not notice a child’s distress, make space for difficult feelings, or offer…