Tag: neuroscience

🧠 Neuroscience of Recovery After Abuse & Separation

©Linda C J Turner

1. Brain Stress Systems (Damage Phase) Cortisol Flooding: Abuse or betrayal keeps the brain in “threat mode,” with the amygdala hyperactive and cortisol/adrenaline spiking. Prefrontal Shutdown: Logical thinking, planning, and self-control weaken — the brain prioritizes survival. Reward System Hijack: Dopamine drops, making it harder to feel motivated, and oxytocin bonds (even unhealthy ones) create withdrawal-like symptoms when the… Read More 🧠 Neuroscience of Recovery After Abuse & Separation

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🧠 Neuroscience of the Con Artist & Catfisher

1. Trust Wiring Exploited Oxytocin: Normally helps you feel bonded and safe.→ Con artists/catfishers trigger this by mirroring your emotions, showing “care,” or creating intimacy fast. Once oxytocin is flowing, the brain suppresses suspicion circuits (in the amygdala), making you overlook red flags. 2. Reward & Anticipation Dopamine surges when they dangle promises — love, money, opportunity, or belonging. The… Read More 🧠 Neuroscience of the Con Artist & Catfisher

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Psychological Perspective

At six months, many people are in a developing attachment phase (often forming a secure or anxious bond). A sudden departure without explanation can trigger abandonment fears, especially if you tend toward anxious attachment. Thoughts like “Did I do something wrong?” or “Do they not care?” are common. Your brain craves closure. When someone leaves without explanation, it… Read More Psychological Perspective

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🧠 Why deciding is so difficult

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

Investment trap (sunk cost fallacy): Your brain resists walking away after years or decades because it feels like all the time, love, and effort will be “wasted.” Bonding chemicals: Oxytocin and dopamine keep you emotionally tied, even when trust is broken. The brain clings to memories of “the good times” rather than the current reality. Cognitive dissonance: Part… Read More 🧠 Why deciding is so difficult

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Genuine Friendships: The Neuroscience and Psychology of Trust Without Agendas

Life is often described as a journey, and the people we meet along the way shape that journey more than the destinations themselves. Among all relationships, genuine friendships—those rooted in authenticity, trust, and no hidden agenda—are the ones that leave the deepest imprint on our brains and hearts. The Psychology of Genuine Connection At the… Read More Genuine Friendships: The Neuroscience and Psychology of Trust Without Agendas

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When You Meet Someone Pretending to Be Something They’re Not

🔹 1. Psychology Behind the Mask Insecurity & Low Self-EsteemPretending often hides deep feelings of inadequacy. They create a “false self” to gain acceptance. Impression ManagementEveryone manages impressions a little, but chronic pretenders do it excessively — tailoring their identity to fit what they think you want. Social & Survival StrategyIn evolutionary psychology, deception sometimes… Read More When You Meet Someone Pretending to Be Something They’re Not

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The Master of Bullshit: Why People Pretend to Be What They’re Not

1. The Psychology of Pretending When you meet someone who presents a fake persona, you are encountering a form of impression management. This is the psychological strategy of controlling how others perceive you. At its mildest, it’s harmless social adaptation (smiling politely, dressing well). But when it becomes exaggerated or manipulative, it’s deception. Insecurity & Low Self-Esteem:… Read More The Master of Bullshit: Why People Pretend to Be What They’re Not

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Choosing Joy: Why It’s Better to Be Alone Than With the Wrong Person

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

A Psychological & Neuroscience Perspective Time is the one thing we can never get back. Who we spend it with—and how we spend it—shapes our mental health, emotional wellbeing, and even our brain chemistry. Too often, people stay in relationships where their needs and joys are ignored, hoping that companionship alone will fill the void.… Read More Choosing Joy: Why It’s Better to Be Alone Than With the Wrong Person

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What It Means When a Partner Constantly Looks at Other Women and Makes Sexual Comments

1. The Psychological Message Lack of respect: Objectifying others in front of you sends the message that your feelings and dignity are not a priority. Low impulse control: This behavior is often linked to reward-seeking and impulsivity, similar to addiction-like patterns. Pathological narcissism or immaturity: Repeated sexual commentary can reflect a need for ego-boosting, validation, or dominance,… Read More What It Means When a Partner Constantly Looks at Other Women and Makes Sexual Comments

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High Standards

Mum and Me

Self-worth, boundaries, and brain chemistry. Here’s how psychology and neuroscience explain why keeping your standards high matters, and why asking “can they afford me?” isn’t just about money — it’s about energy, respect, and emotional investment. 💎 1. Why Standards Matter (Psychology) Standards = Self-Respect → When you hold boundaries around how you want to be treated, you’re… Read More High Standards

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