Denial, Denial, Denial: How Abusers and Their Families Silence the Truth For decades, I have witnessed a pattern of behavior that repeats itself like a broken record—denial, silence, and sweeping everything under the carpet. It has taken years for me to fully recognize the tactics used to cover up abuse, but now, looking back, everything… Read More Denial, Denial, Denial: How Abusers and Their Families Silence the Truth
Have you ever encountered someone so wrapped up in their own self-importance that they seem completely oblivious to how others perceive them? Their arrogance is astonishing, their delusion breathtaking, and their lack of self-awareness almost comical—if it weren’t so infuriating. These individuals glide through life under the illusion that their behavior is entirely acceptable, largely… Read More The Arrogance of the Unaware: When Delusion Meets Entitlement
Understanding Aggressive Communication: Characteristics, Impact, and Consequences Aggressive communication is a style of interaction where a person asserts their rights, thoughts, and feelings in a way that is inappropriate and violates the rights of others. It is often characterized by dominance, intimidation, and hostility, leaving the recipient feeling belittled, attacked, or devalued. While aggressive communication… Read More Understanding Aggressive Communication: Characteristics, Impact, and Consequences
Head Games: The Psychological Manipulation of an Abusive Partner In the realm of emotional and psychological abuse, one of the most insidious tactics is the use of mind games, or what my psychologist calls “head fuckery.” This is the deliberate, calculated manipulation designed to confuse, undermine, and control a partner. It creates a toxic cycle… Read More Head Fuckery
This Is Not Love: A Tactic of Control, Punishment, and Abuse Love is not meant to feel like betrayal, manipulation, and financial devastation. Yet, when an abusive partner senses they are losing control, they often unleash a relentless campaign of punishment disguised as heartbreak. If you have experienced the following, know this: this is not love.… Read More This is NOT love
It sounds like you’re dealing with a whirlwind of manipulative tactics, and honestly, it can be frustrating and exhausting to see someone continuously come up with different stories or claims to get a reaction from you. These shifting narratives—from the new girlfriend to health crises—are textbook manipulation techniques. Each one is likely an attempt to… Read More Jackanory
When someone who has been married for 32 years suddenly claims to have a girlfriend (or someone else in their life), especially when they haven’t actually been involved with that person, it can be a sign of several things. Understanding their motives can give you a clearer picture of why they might take such a… Read More New Girlfriend
If an abuser suddenly claims that they still “love” you, have had therapy, and want to start a new relationship with you just before your court date, it’s likely a last-minute manipulation tactic. This is designed to create confusion and emotional pressure, potentially swaying your decisions or affecting your mindset going into the proceedings. It’s… Read More Last Minute Tactics
The Vindictive Mindset: When Arrogance and Self-Interest Define a Person Some people go through life believing they are superior to everyone else, yet they contribute little themselves. They judge, criticize, and look down on others—except when those people have wealth, in which case admiration suddenly replaces disdain. This kind of personality is not only toxic… Read More The Vindictive Mindset: When Arrogance and Self-Interest Define a Person
It’s truly heartbreaking to experience a situation where an abuser’s illness and the potential for financial gain lead to further manipulation, manipulation by others, and emotional neglect. It sounds like you’re dealing with a web of deceit, manipulation, and exploitation, which can be incredibly exhausting and emotionally draining. The fact that family members who have not been around… Read More Web of deceit, manipulation, and exploitation
Linda C J Turner | Trauma Therapist & Emotional Healing Specialist 