💣 Common Tactics During Divorce & Property Division

When you’re divorcing someone who has been financially or physically abusive, the process often becomes an extension of the control and intimidation that existed in the relationship. Understanding what to expect can help you prepare emotionally, legally, and strategically. Here’s a trauma-informed breakdown of common divorce tactics used by abusers, followed by practical ways to protect yourself.… Read More 💣 Common Tactics During Divorce & Property Division

Playing cruel games

When someone deliberately plays cruel games with a person who’s already survived horrific trauma, it’s not “just relationship drama.” It’s psychological harm that exploits vulnerability and the brain’s attachment systems. Below I explain the types of people who do this, the neuroscience and psychology behind it, concrete behavioral examples, the typical impact on trauma survivors, and practical… Read More Playing cruel games

“When They Never Come: The Psychology of Avoiding What You Love”

Moraira.Perth, Australia.Bournemouth.Puerto Banús.The places your daughter and grandchildren lived.The places filled with laughter, warmth, and belonging. And he never came.Not once. Not to visit. Not to share a meal, a beach, a moment.Always an excuse — too hot, too far, too boring, too Benidorm. It speaks volumes. Because in psychology, avoidance is rarely about disinterest — it’s… Read More “When They Never Come: The Psychology of Avoiding What You Love”

“When the Abuser Moves to Your Dream: The Psychology Behind Suddenly Wanting Moraira”

There’s a certain kind of cruelty that isn’t loud — it’s symbolic.Ten years ago, Moraira was your dream: sunshine, family, peace.He never wanted to come. He criticized Spain — too hot, too tacky, too Benidorm.He dismissed your joy because it wasn’t his. But now, suddenly, it’s his place.He visits, settles, even claims it as though the dream was always… Read More “When the Abuser Moves to Your Dream: The Psychology Behind Suddenly Wanting Moraira”

How Narcissists Find a New “Supply” After a Long-Term Relationship

Let’s break this down carefully from both psychological and neuroscience perspectives, then compare healthy relationships vs. narcissistic relationships, including practical signs to watch out for. 1. How Narcissists Find a New “Supply” After a Long-Term Relationship In psychology, the term “narcissistic supply” refers to the attention, admiration, validation, or control a narcissist gets from others.… Read More How Narcissists Find a New “Supply” After a Long-Term Relationship

When Love Becomes a Ledger: The Psychology of Financial Abuse

Money and love are supposed to flow in partnership — trust, shared goals, and security. But for many, financial arrangements in relationships become a weapon rather than a bond. One of the most insidious forms of control is financial abuse, a dynamic where one partner manipulates resources, property, and obligations to entrap or exploit the other.… Read More When Love Becomes a Ledger: The Psychology of Financial Abuse

1. What a Prenup Should Be

2. When It’s a Red Flag If someone insists on a prenup while simultaneously pushing financial entanglements that benefit them, psychology suggests ulterior motives. Examples: This points to instrumental thinking — treating the partner as a means to an end rather than an equal. 3. Psychological Profile of Someone Who Does This 4. Neuroscience Layer People who exploit financially often show reduced empathy circuitry —… Read More 1. What a Prenup Should Be

🛑 How to Avoid an Abuser: Understanding the Mindset and Spotting the Red Flags

When to Step Away Before a Relationship Becomes a Trap Love should feel safe. It should expand you, not shrink you. Yet so many of us find ourselves drawn into relationships that begin like fairy tales and end in manipulation, fear, or emotional devastation. Why? Because many abusers don’t start out looking like abusers. They start… Read More 🛑 How to Avoid an Abuser: Understanding the Mindset and Spotting the Red Flags

💥 When Control Fails, the Mask Slips: Understanding Post-Separation Abuse Through the Lens of Psychology and Neuroscience

Ten months ago, I filed for divorce. What followed was a predictable script: threats, harassment, subpoenas, financial manipulation, and a sudden interest in control tactics disguised as legal action. He offered 10%, threw legal fees like confetti — over €1000 spent fighting over nothing. All for what? To cling onto control. To continue a pattern as… Read More 💥 When Control Fails, the Mask Slips: Understanding Post-Separation Abuse Through the Lens of Psychology and Neuroscience

🧠 Psychological Perspective: What Is Sadism in Relationships?

In psychology, sadism refers to deriving pleasure or satisfaction from inflicting pain, humiliation, or suffering on others. While sadistic traits can be part of severe personality disorders (like antisocial or narcissistic personality disorders), there is a growing body of research that explores everyday sadism — the kind that shows up in social situations, relationships, or even online interactions. Traits of a Relational Sadist: These… Read More 🧠 Psychological Perspective: What Is Sadism in Relationships?