Almost everyone has experienced a toxic relationship at some point in their life — whether with a romantic partner, a family member or even a friend. Trauma-bonded relationships fall under this ...

Most people think trauma bonds develop from shared difficult experiences or mutual support during tough times. However, mental health professionals warn that these emotional connections often mask a ...

Trauma bonding is a psychological phenomenon where individuals form intense emotional attachments to those who cause them harm. These bonds create destructive cycles that often leave people trapped in ...

Living with a partner who qualifies for a diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is never easy and pleasant. The reasons why this is so have been covered extensively elsewhere, so I will ...

Trauma bonding is a unique (and hella toxic) bond between an abuser and an abused person. It’s a common, but really bad coping mechanism that occurs when a person experiences serious trauma. This ...

All products featured on Self are independently selected by Self editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, Condé Nast may earn an affiliate commission. Not every toxic ...

BRINK OF BREAKUP OR DIVORCE; INFIDELITY; PARTNER BETRAYAL; DECEPTION, LIES, SECRECY; GASLIGHTING; CODEPENDENCY; TRAUMA BONDING ATTACHMENT: Struggling with the aftermath of infidelity, betrayal, ...

Love and trauma bonding might feel similar on the surface, but they’re worlds apart in essence. While love grows from mutual respect and trust, trauma bonding often takes root in a cycle of fear, ...

When former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko erupted in anger in a video that quickly went viral online, it was not the theatrics Kenyans have come to associate with him. This time, the fury had ...

We often mistake intensity for intimacy. The initial spark, late-night talks, and the feeling that someone finally gets you can be addictive. It feels like love, like something written in the stars.