“Who said it would be easy?” (ongoing)

Any educational institution can, in some sense, become a “punishing” environment for a child who finds themselves there. Emotional abuse of children in schools by teachers is a grave issue that can have long-lasting detrimental effects on a child’s well-being and development. This form of abuse can take various forms, including constant belittling, humiliating, or manipulating students, as well as excessively harsh criticism or ignoring their emotional needs. I spent about 10 years in a music school — from ages 8 to 17, honing my technique and expressiveness in piano playing. I came to the music school unknowingly, simply enjoying pressing the keys of our home piano. Music drew me in, but not everything was smooth in getting to know it. Until recently, I didn’t realize how toxic my relationship had become with my music teacher. Because of my interest in music and good technique, the teacher saw it as an opportunity to fulfill her ambitions and turn me into a “star”. In my case, being a “performing musician” meant enduring the screams and insults of the teacher, as well as phrases like “you simply cannot be praised, it reduces motivation”, slamming doors, pounding on the piano lid, being left alone for hours after lessons, and practicing scales. Now I’m interested in reflecting on what the experience of education in educational institutions can be like. How a child, who is accompanied by an authoritative adult while engaging in their favorite activity, can have their interest ruined by that adult. My story is about feeling helpless and trapped when a person in childhood faces emotional abuse. Teachers who emotionally abuse children may create an environment of fear and anxiety, eroding students' self-esteem and confidence. Such behavior can hinder academic performance, lead to social withdrawal, and contribute to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.