Is it emotional abuse to give a child a choice to do something? Situation is With my ex partner. I have asked to do a special family event which clashes with a weekly after school activity and unfortunately it can’t be planned any other day. I have asked if they could miss one week to be able to Come. My ex has said no as they don’t regard it as important and have said they don’t even want to ask the child as it will be emotional abuse to allow them a choice between the two activities and so they will make the decision on their behalf and decline me. The child in question is 9.