Unraveling Trauma Bonds: Why We Stay with Narcissists
Episode Overview
Trauma bonding creates emotional ties mistaken for love. Childhood attachment trauma influences adult relationships. Codependents often feel drawn to narcissists due to inverse attraction. Breaking free requires understanding these complex emotional ties. Healing involves addressing deep-seated childhood experiences.
"Trauma bonding feels like love, but it's rooted in pain and familiarity."
Ross Rosenberg, a seasoned psychotherapist and author, tackles the intricate topic of trauma bonding in relationships with narcissists in this episode of The Self-Love Recovery Podcast. If you've ever wondered why people remain in harmful relationships, this episode might shed some light. Trauma bonding is described as the emotional ties that develop between codependents, or those with Self-Love Deficit Disorder™, and narcissists. These bonds are often mistaken for love due to the strong emotional pull they create.
Ross explains how childhood attachment trauma influences adult relationship patterns, using his Human Magnet Syndrome framework. He explores why individuals stay in toxic relationships and how these bonds can feel comforting despite being damaging. The episode is filled with Ross's personal reflections from his own healing journey and his extensive experience in the mental health field. Listeners are guided through the dynamics of codependent and narcissistic relationships, likened to a dance where each partner has distinct roles.
Ross also touches on the concept of limerence, a euphoric state often felt at the beginning of such relationships, which can later devolve into pain and suffering. If you're seeking to understand the deep-seated reasons behind staying in toxic relationships, or looking for ways to break free, Ross offers valuable insights and strategies. His compassionate approach provides hope and direction for those struggling with these complex emotional ties. Why not give it a listen?
You might just find the understanding you need to start your journey towards healthier relationships.