When trauma is part of the picture, couples may find themselves caught in patterns that are difficult to understand or change. One partner may withdraw when conflict arises, while the other becomes more persistent in seeking reassurance.
Radical acceptance is the practice of fully acknowledging reality without attempting to deny, minimize, or constantly fight against what has already happened or what is currently outside of your control.
The terms stonewalling and grey rocking describe behaviors associated with narcissistic abuse that often get confused. One term describes a form of manipulation and the other describes a form of protection. Both can involve becoming quiet, offering fewer responses, or disengaging from a conversation, however, the intent and purpose behind them are very different.
Healthy relationships require responsibility, sacrifice, and support. At times, we put our partner's needs ahead of our own. We show up when they're struggling, make compromises, and help carry burdens. None of that is codependency.
The narcissistic person appears self-absorbed, however, beneath the inflated self-image lies profound self-loathing. At its core, narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is less about self-love and more about the avoidance of shame.
For many people, making decisions is a routine part of daily life, but for those who have experienced complex trauma, even small choices can feel paralyzing. This isn’t a matter of indecisiveness or lack of confidence, it’s a deeply rooted response shaped by past experiences where safety, control, and predictability were often absent