Emotional Emptiness and Child Neglect: The Impact of Chronic Feelings of Emptiness in Human Capabilities

Abstract

The present contribution aims to provide an analysis of the under-studied emotional state of emptiness. In order to do this, we firstly provide a description of the spectrum of emotional states of emptiness, their associated cognitions, antecedents and effects. Secondly, we focus on the cases where this state is chronified. By doing so, we aim to show the connection of chronic states of emptiness with neglect during childhood. Finally, we assume the Capability Approach developed by Martha Nussbaum as a normative framework that enables us to evaluate prolonged states of emotional emptiness and their effects upon the development of basic capabilities and the self as a potential instance of injustice.