Trauma bonds are formed between a victim of abuse and their abuser, creating unhealthy emotional connections that need to be broken.
Money Heist fans can recognize Monica’s relationship with Denver as a clear example of Stockholm syndrome, later named Stockholm in the show. Stockholm Syndrome is when a victim forms a positive association with their abuser, which is a type of trauma bond.
Other examples of trauma bonds include abusive relationships, following a leader, or being part of a cult. It is crucial for mental health and well-being to break free from these trauma bonds. Psychiatrist Dr. Pavana S discusses the types of trauma bonds and how to break them with Health Shots.
What is a trauma bond?
A trauma bond is a strong emotional connection between individuals who have experienced intense, often traumatic situations and the person causing these situations. Dr. Pavana explains that these bonds can occur in various relationships, characterized by emotions like fear, dependency, loyalty, and distorted attachment.
Different aspects of trauma bonds
All trauma bonds have these two common characteristics.
1. Cyclical Nature
Trauma bonds follow a cyclical pattern of intense emotional bonding interspersed with conflict, abuse, or betrayal, creating unpredictability and keeping individuals trapped.
2. Power Imbalance
Trauma bonds often involve a power imbalance where one person has significant control over the other, perpetuating feelings of helplessness and dependency, making it hard to break free.
Key signs of trauma bonds
1. Intense emotional attachment
Individuals in trauma bonds feel deeply connected to their abuser despite experiencing harm.
2. Difficulty leaving the relationship
Victims find it challenging to leave even when they recognize the harmful dynamics.
3. Rationalizing abuse
Victims may minimize or rationalize the abuser’s behavior, blaming themselves or justifying the actions.
4. Isolation from support systems
Abusers may manipulate victims into isolating themselves from support systems, reinforcing the toxic bond.
Why do trauma bonds develop?
Trauma bonds develop due to repeated exposure to trauma, unmet attachment needs, and manipulation and control tactics used by abusers, fostering dependency and loyalty.
The freeze response is a common reaction to trauma, where individuals feel immobilized in the face of danger, a survival mechanism to protect against harm.
How to break a trauma bond?
To break a trauma bond, acknowledge the reality of the unhealthy relationship, seek support, set boundaries, focus on self-care, create a safety plan, build a support network, and seek therapy for healing.