Category: Coercive Control

Coercive control refers to a pattern of abusive behavior in which one person uses various tactics to dominate, manipulate, and control another person, typically within an intimate or familial relationship. Unlike physical abuse, coercive control primarily relies on psychological, emotional, and sometimes economic tactics to exert power and control over the victim. This form of abuse is often insidious and can have profound and long-lasting effects on the victim’s well-being.

The Original “Suspension Bridge” Study (Dutton & Aron, 1974)

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 © 2025 Linda Carol Turner. Content protected by copyright.
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Let’s go deeper into the misattribution of arousal, its neuroscience, and how cortisol and emotional conditioning turn that initial thrill or anxiety into a powerful — and often dangerous — attachment loop. This is one of the most fascinating (and disturbing) examples of how biology can be hijacked by emotional manipulation. 🧠 1. The Original “Suspension Bridge” Study… Read More The Original “Suspension Bridge” Study (Dutton & Aron, 1974)

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🕯️ Charm, Sex & the Lure: The Neuroscience and Psychology of Seduction-as-Manipulation

People of any gender can use charm and sex as a strategy — intentionally or unconsciously — to gain power, control, or resources from others. Because these tactics hijack the brain’s bonding and reward systems, they can feel intoxicating and convincing. Understanding the science behind them helps survivors reclaim clarity, protect themselves, and heal. 1)… Read More 🕯️ Charm, Sex & the Lure: The Neuroscience and Psychology of Seduction-as-Manipulation

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🚀 Billy Bullshitter: The Neuroscience of the Pretend Entrepreneur, Rocket Scientist, Playboy, and Brain Surgeon

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

🎭 The Performance Meet Billy Bullshitter.On paper — or rather, on profile — he’s a visionary entrepreneur, self-taught pilot, retired brain surgeon, and part-time philosopher who “just loves deep conversations about the universe.” In reality, he’s an ordinary guy in search of extraordinary validation. Billy’s not trying to sell a product. He’s selling himself — or rather, a carefully… Read More 🚀 Billy Bullshitter: The Neuroscience of the Pretend Entrepreneur, Rocket Scientist, Playboy, and Brain Surgeon

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The Neuroscience of Manipulative Touch: When Affection Becomes Control

Touch is one of the most powerful forms of human communication. A gentle hand on the shoulder, a comforting hug, or a warm embrace can lower stress hormones, release oxytocin (the “bonding hormone”), and strengthen emotional connection. But neuroscience also shows that touch can be used in darker, more self-serving ways — as a tool… Read More The Neuroscience of Manipulative Touch: When Affection Becomes Control

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Drop the court case!

Demanding someone drop a court case and threatening they’ll “get nothing” in the divorce unless they do — can amount to coercive/controlling behaviour, threats, blackmail or undue pressure. It can be criminal and it will also affect family/civil proceedings (and the safety of the person pressured). Crown Prosecution Service+1 Below I’ve summarised what that means in practice,… Read More Drop the court case!

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Putting someone under excessive pressure when they are suicidal — coercive control as a weapon

Summary When a person is suicidal, pressuring, threatening, shaming, or isolating them to get compliance is not only cruel — it is a form of coercive control that dramatically increases risk of self-harm and suicide. This behaviour exploits vulnerability, amplifies fear and hopelessness, and may be criminal in many jurisdictions. (See legal guidance and evidence… Read More Putting someone under excessive pressure when they are suicidal — coercive control as a weapon

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When the Truth Doesn’t Match the Tears: The Weaponization of Illness

When the Truth Doesn’t Match the Tears: The Weaponization of Illness There are few things more devastating than hearing someone say they are dying of cancer. It evokes immediate empathy, sorrow, and compassion. It’s a powerful declaration—one that stops people in their tracks and shifts the way we view everything around that person. But what… Read More When the Truth Doesn’t Match the Tears: The Weaponization of Illness

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