Author: Linda C J Turner

Linda CJ Turner Trauma & Relationship Specialist | Neuroscience & Emotional Regulation | Women 45+ | Emotional Abuse & Coercive Control Recovery You survived it. Now it’s time to heal from it.

The Power of Honesty in Relationships: Psychology, Neuroscience, and Human Dignity

One of the most profound truths about relationships is that they are built on trust. When honesty is present, even in difficult moments, it preserves a sense of dignity and respect between two people. When dishonesty enters the room—whether through lies, hidden affairs, or unspoken resentments—the foundation weakens. Over time, secrecy corrodes intimacy like rust… Read More The Power of Honesty in Relationships: Psychology, Neuroscience, and Human Dignity

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The Ultimate Turn-Off: Lies, Dishonesty, and the Erosion of Trust

There’s a unique, almost visceral reaction we experience when we catch someone in a lie. That moment—the realization that someone we trusted has been dishonest—can feel like a punch to the gut. Psychologically, it’s more than just a social faux pas; it strikes at the very foundation of human connection: trust. Why Lies Are So… Read More The Ultimate Turn-Off: Lies, Dishonesty, and the Erosion of Trust

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Emotional Contagion: How We “Catch” Feelings From Others

What It Is Emotional contagion is the process by which we unconsciously “pick up” and mirror the emotions of people around us. Just like a yawn spreads in a room, so does a laugh, a sigh, or a heavy silence. We’re wired to absorb others’ feelings — it’s part of being human. Psychologists define emotional… Read More Emotional Contagion: How We “Catch” Feelings From Others

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When Life Revolves Around Illness: Escaping the Cycle of Hypochondria

Some families seem to have an endless script of ailments: one week it’s a back problem, the next a digestive issue, then headaches, then fatigue. The list never ends, and nothing ever truly resolves. Doctor visits and prescriptions become the rhythm of life, with conversations revolving around symptoms, scans, and “what might be wrong this… Read More When Life Revolves Around Illness: Escaping the Cycle of Hypochondria

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Misery Loves Misery: The Psychology of Why Some People Can’t Stand Joy

It’s said that misery loves company — but in truth, misery loves misery. People who are deeply unhappy often feel safest when others around them mirror the same mood. Why? 🔹 Psychology explains: When someone hasn’t learned to self-soothe or process emotions, they project their discomfort outward. Seeing others joyful only reminds them of what they lack — so they… Read More Misery Loves Misery: The Psychology of Why Some People Can’t Stand Joy

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Escaping the Killjoys: Why Some People Spoil Joy

By Linda C J Turner, Therapist & Advocate — Linda C J Turner Trauma Therapist | Neuroscience & Emotional Intelligence Practitioner | Advocate for Women’s Empowerment ©Linda C J Turner

Some people seem wired to dim the light. They may not be intentionally cruel, but they are emotionally unavailable to celebrate others. Instead, they live in misery, pull people down, and spoil every special occasion. Psychologists call this spoiling behavior—an unconscious attempt to regulate their own discomfort by dampening other people’s happiness. 🔹 Psychology behind it: Killjoys… Read More Escaping the Killjoys: Why Some People Spoil Joy

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Escaping the Killjoy: Psychology and Neuroscience of Those Who Spoil Joy

By Linda C J Turner, Therapist & Advocate — Linda C J Turner Trauma Therapist | Neuroscience & Emotional Intelligence Practitioner | Advocate for Women’s Empowerment ©Linda C J Turner

Some people seem to have an uncanny knack for draining the light from a room. They roll their eyes at others’ happiness, criticize celebrations, and find ways to dampen moments that should be filled with laughter and connection. These “killjoys” don’t always realize the harm they cause, but their impact is real: they create toxic… Read More Escaping the Killjoy: Psychology and Neuroscience of Those Who Spoil Joy

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A Daughter’s Birthday: The Gift of Love, Resilience, and Bonding

Today marks the birthday of my beautiful daughter—beautiful inside and out. Birthdays have a way of pulling us back through time, reminding us of the exact day when a new life entered the world. I can still remember the day she was born, that first moment of holding her, and the flood of pride and… Read More A Daughter’s Birthday: The Gift of Love, Resilience, and Bonding

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