When the Mind Protects Us From the Truth: The Psychology of a Life Lived in Denial

The text explores the psychological mechanisms individuals use to avoid confronting the truth about their harmful behaviors. It discusses cognitive dissonance, self-deception, and denial, noting how these defenses protect self-image but hinder personal growth. Emphasizing the importance of accountability over shame, it highlights the potential for change through acknowledging reality.… Read More When the Mind Protects Us From the Truth: The Psychology of a Life Lived in Denial

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Self-abandonment

Self-abandonment is a particularly powerful concept for this article. In relationships, it means gradually putting aside your own needs, boundaries, values, feelings or dignity in order to keep the relationship, avoid conflict, or prevent someone from leaving. It isn’t simply being loving or compromising. Healthy compromise involves both people. Self-abandonment repeatedly costs you yourself. What self-abandonment can… Read More Self-abandonment

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Care, But Don’t Abandon Your Dignity to Prove That You Care

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

Self-respect in relationships means maintaining personal boundaries while allowing love to flourish. Misconceptions exist that love requires competition and self-abandonment. True love respects dignity and avoids emotional games, prompting honest communication and mutual choice. Healthy relationships let individuals value themselves while caring deeply without compromising their worth.… Read More Care, But Don’t Abandon Your Dignity to Prove That You Care

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People With Self-Respect Don’t Play Head Games

Baseball scoreboard displaying '3 Strikes and You're Out' with game score and inning information

In relationships, responding to emotional games with indifference showcases self-respect. Healthy individuals refuse to compete for affection and instead maintain boundaries, acknowledging that another’s behavior is their responsibility. A mature relationship should not rely on manipulation or jealousy to affirm love, but instead foster open communication and respect for each other’s feelings.… Read More People With Self-Respect Don’t Play Head Games

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Be Careful What You Test For — Because Sometimes You Get the Answer

Long-term relationships can suffer when partners resort to emotional games for reassurance, such as becoming distant or provoking jealousy. These behaviors often stem from insecurity and can lead to misunderstandings. Instead of testing their partner’s feelings, individuals should engage in open conversations to address underlying issues, fostering genuine intimacy.… Read More Be Careful What You Test For — Because Sometimes You Get the Answer

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I’ll Make You Jealous — But What If You Actually Leave?

Some individuals provoke jealousy in their partners to rekindle attention in faltering relationships, believing it will elicit a caring response. This tactic can backfire, leading to disengagement instead of renewed affection. Healthy communication is vital, as jealousy often reveals deeper emotional issues rather than fostering genuine connection.… Read More I’ll Make You Jealous — But What If You Actually Leave?

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Enough Is Enough: Why Supporting Victims of Domestic Violence Matters

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

Domestic violence is often viewed as a private matter, but it requires public acknowledgment and support. Victims need validation and assistance from friends and family. It is essential to challenge the normalization of abuse, provide real support, and ensure that victims do not face their struggles alone. Silence only enables the abuse to persist.… Read More Enough Is Enough: Why Supporting Victims of Domestic Violence Matters

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Trabajos en beneficio de la comunidad (community service)

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

In Spain, community service is categorized as a criminal penalty under Article 33 of the Penal Code, distinct from voluntary activities. Article 49 details its execution, emphasizing it is unpaid, supervised, and involves public utility work. There is also a difference between community service as a sentence and as a condition for suspended sentences.… Read More Trabajos en beneficio de la comunidad (community service)

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