Are you dating a real-life Mr. Big? These signs can tell you if you’ve fallen for an emotionally unavailable man, and what to do about it. Carrie and Mr. Big… Although it’s been 10 years since the finale of Sex and the City, the central relationship of my favorite HBO series still puzzles me. Was it […]
emotionally abusive
7 Signs You’re In a Toxic Trauma Bond Relationship
A trauma bond is a toxic relationship that is forged out of pain, abuse, and codependency. It’s often a romantic relationship, but it can also be a relationship with a parent, sibling, or even a friend. Similar to Stockholm Syndrome when captives become emotionally attached to their captors, people in abusive relationships become attached (or […]
10 Boundaries You Need to Set With Your Toxic Parent
If you’re dealing with a controlling, manipulative, toxic parent, you know that they thrive on overstepping your boundaries and pushing your “buttons.” And they often do it with impunity because they are…well, family. That’s precisely why setting boundaries with a parent isn’t easy. But it’s the only way to protect yourself from their overbearing, irrational […]
How to Disarm a Manipulator (When You’re a People Pleaser)
From time to time, we all manipulate each other in small ways to get what we want. But for some people, it’s the only way they know how to get their needs met. So how do you disarm a manipulator? First and foremost, by learning to recognize manipulative (or emotionally abusive) behavior. Manipulation tactics only […]
10 Steps to Taking Your Power Back From a Toxic Person
Do you have a toxic person in your life? Nearly all of us do. The term “toxic” refers to a particularly thorny individual that schemes, manipulates, and verbally assaults to maintain control and a sense of self-importance. It can be just about anyone: your partner, your boss, your friend, your mother-in-law… And what they do […]
7 Emotionally Abusive Tactics Toxic People Use to Get Their Way
If you’re a human living on planet Earth, you know at least one person who can be described as “difficult,” “emotionally abusive” or “toxic.” These creatures can be identified by their uncanny abilities to create drama out of thin air and exploit other people for their satisfaction. Here are their favorite weapons of mass destruction. […]