In the early stage of a relationship it is very common for someone to feel a strong connection and then suddenly pull back. Psychology and neuroscience show several reasons why this happens. 1. Intensity triggers the brain’s fear system At the beginning of attraction, the brain releases dopamine, oxytocin, and adrenaline. These chemicals create excitement, passion, and the… Read More Intensity triggers the brain’s fear system
Here are 5 subtle signs someone may have weak or unhealthy boundaries in relationships, based on findings in relationship psychology and behavioural neuroscience. 1. Difficulty saying “no” One of the clearest signs of weak boundaries is the inability to refuse requests. People with this pattern often: Psychologists link this behaviour to a strong need for approval. The… Read More The healthy balance
Boundaries are a cornerstone of healthy relationships and emotional wellbeing. In psychology, boundaries are understood as the limits we set to protect our emotional, physical, and mental space while still allowing connection with others. They are not about pushing people away—they are about creating safe and respectful ways to relate to each other. Here is a deeper… Read More Seven types of boundaries
Misunderstandings are very common in new relationships. When two people are just getting to know each other, their brains are still learning each other’s communication style, emotional needs, and boundaries. Both psychology and neuroscience help explain why this happens. 1. The brain is filling in the gaps In the early stages of a relationship, we don’t yet have… Read More Getting to know you?
In relationships, human behaviour often works like a mirror. What we project outward frequently comes back to us in similar form. If we communicate with warmth, openness and respect, those qualities tend to invite the same response. But when we project coldness, distance or hostility, it is not surprising when the response we receive feels… Read More The Energy We Give Is Often the Energy We Receive
Research in Psychology and Neuroscience shows that some abusive or highly narcissistic personalities often become more rigid, angry, and unhappy as they grow older. This pattern is often associated with traits linked to Narcissistic Personality Disorder, though not every abusive person has the disorder. The reason has a lot to do with how their identity and emotional regulation are structured. Why Some… Read More Why Some Abusive Personalities Deteriorate With Age
After an abusive long-term relationship ends, many people notice a striking contrast over time: the survivor gradually becomes stronger and more peaceful, while the abusive partner often becomes more bitter, chaotic, or unstable. Research in Psychology and Neuroscience helps explain why these two paths can diverge so dramatically. 1. The Survivor’s Brain Begins Healing Once the abusive environment is gone,… Read More Survivors Process Reality — Abusers Often Avoid It
When an abusive or highly controlling long-term marriage ends, the psychological processes in the abusive partner’s brain can look very different from those in the person who experienced the abuse. Research in Psychology and Neuroscience shows several patterns that often occur. Not every abusive person reacts the same way, but there are some common dynamics. 1. Loss of Control Triggers… Read More Loss of Control Triggers a Psychological Crisis
When a long-term marriage has been abusive, the emotional and neurological processes are more complex than in a normal breakup. In many cases, the person who experienced the abuse doesn’t immediately move on, even when the relationship was harmful. Research in Neuroscience and Psychology explains several reasons why this happens. 1. The Brain Has Built Deep Neural Bonds A long-term relationship… Read More Identity and Life Narrative Are Entangled
Sometimes when someone pulls away, it doesn’t necessarily mean the feelings were false. In Psychology and Neuroscience, there is a pattern often linked to attachment systems in the brain. A person can feel strong emotions but become overwhelmed when those feelings start to require vulnerability or commitment. Here are three subtle signs that someone may have real feelings but becomes scared… Read More Mixed signals
Linda C J Turner | Trauma Therapist & Emotional Healing Specialist 