Reactive Abuse: When Emotions Are Turned Against You
Episode Overview
Reactive abuse involves using your emotional reactions against you. Abusers often label victims as 'crazy' or 'unstable'. Gaslighting makes victims question their own reality. Healing starts with recognising and naming the abuse. Emotional responses are valid and should be expressed.
"Your anger, sadness, confusion, and fear are not signs that something is wrong with you. They are signs that something wrong is happening to you."
Ever felt like your emotions were being used against you? In this eye-opening episode, Cynthia Bailey-Rug tackles the complex issue of reactive abuse, a form of emotional manipulation that turns victims' natural reactions into ammunition for abusers. Imagine being provoked to the brink of an emotional outburst only to be labeled as 'crazy' or 'unstable'. It's a mind-bending tactic that shifts blame away from the real culprit.
But reactive abuse isn't just about explosive reactions; it’s also about those quieter moments when you're made to feel guilty for simply being human. Maybe you've been told you're 'too sensitive' or accused of 'starting drama' when you express sadness or anger. Cynthia breaks down how these tactics aren't just invalidation—they're gaslighting, designed to make you question your own sanity and emotions.
The podcast goes beyond the surface, exploring how reactive abuse conditions victims to suppress their feelings, making them doubt their own reality. Abusers demand that everything is swept under the rug, expecting you to 'move on' without acknowledgment or healing. Over time, this can erode your sense of self, making you feel like your pain is a burden rather than a valid response. Cynthia's empathetic approach offers hope and understanding.
She encourages listeners to reclaim their right to feel and express emotions. By recognising reactive abuse for what it is, victims can begin the journey toward healing. So, if you've ever felt trapped in a cycle of self-blame and confusion, this episode might just be the lifeline you need. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to break free from emotional manipulation and reclaim their truth.