Trauma Bonding Explained, Why We Stay in Harmful Relationships with Rebecca Zung on Negotiate Your Best Life #582

In today’s episode, Rebecca dives into a topic that touches the lives of so many but is often misunderstood: trauma bonding. Why do we stay in harmful relationships, even when we know they’re damaging us? Trauma bonding goes beyond love or loyalty—it’s a deep psychological connection formed in the midst of abuse, manipulation, and emotional highs and lows. Rebecca unpacks how trauma bonds are formed, the powerful hold they can have over us, and, most importantly, how to begin breaking free. If you've ever found yourself trapped in a cycle of pain, or know someone who has, this episode is for you. Stay tuned and explore the hidden dynamics of trauma bonding and offer insights on reclaiming your freedom. ____________________________________________________________________ Check out my FREE Live webinar, the OUTSMART A NARCISSIST A 4-STEP PROVEN PLAN To Take Your Power Back RIGHT HERE Learn more about the SLAY Your Negotiation with Narcissists program right here:  https://slay.rebeccazung.com/slay-it-now-a ___________________________________ _________________________________ For more information on REBECCA ZUNG, ESQ. visit her website www.rebeccazung.com and follow her on Instagram: @rebeccazung and YouTube!  GRAB YOUR FREE CRUSH MY NEGOTIATION PREP WORKSHEET RIGHT HERE!  SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL RIGHT HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode Rebecca explores practical tools to protect yourself from manipulation and build stronger boundaries. Whether it's in relationships, at work, or within your social circles, it's easy to find yourself in situations where you're giving more than you're receiving—or worse, being taken advantage of. But don't worry! In this episode, Rebecca breaks down actionable steps to recognize and stop this cycle, empowering you to stand firm and protect your energy. So, if you're ready to reclaim control and avoid being used, stay tuned! ____________________________________________________________________ Check out my FREE Live webinar, the OUTSMART A NARCISSIST A 4-STEP PROVEN PLAN To Take Your Power Back RIGHT HERE Learn more about the SLAY Your Negotiation with Narcissists program right here:  https://slay.rebeccazung.com/slay-it-now-a ___________________________________ _________________________________ For more information on REBECCA ZUNG, ESQ. visit her website www.rebeccazung.com and follow her on Instagram: @rebeccazung and YouTube!  GRAB YOUR FREE CRUSH MY NEGOTIATION PREP WORKSHEET RIGHT HERE!  SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL RIGHT HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sam Vaknin ( http://samvak.tripod.com/mediakit.html ) is the author of Malignant Self-love: Narcissism Revisited as well as many other books and ebooks about topics in psychology, relationships, philosophy, economics, international affairs, and award-winning short fiction. He is a Professor of Clinical Psychology and Management Studies in CIAPS (Commonwealth of International Advanced Professional Studies), Cambridge and Birmingham, UK; Ontario, Canada; Lagos, Nigeria; and a former Visiting Professor of Psychology, Southern Federal University, Rostov-on-Don, Russia. He was the Editor-in-Chief of Global Politician and served as a columnist for Central Europe Review, PopMatters, eBookWeb , and Bellaonline, and as a United Press International (UPI) Senior Business Correspondent. He was the editor of mental health and Central East Europe categories in The Open Directory and Suite101. His YouTube channels garnered 100,000,000 views and 450,000 subscribers. Visit Sam's Web site at http://www.narcissistic-abuse.com  Author of Malignant Self Love: Narcissism Revisited  ____________________________________________________________________ Check out my FREE Live webinar, the OUTSMART A NARCISSIST A 4-STEP PROVEN PLAN To Take Your Power Back RIGHT HERE Learn more about the SLAY Your Negotiation with Narcissists program right here:  https://slay.rebeccazung.com/slay-it-now-a ___________________________________ _________________________________ For more information on REBECCA ZUNG, ESQ. visit her website www.rebeccazung.com and follow her on Instagram: @rebeccazung and YouTube!  GRAB YOUR FREE CRUSH MY NEGOTIATION PREP WORKSHEET RIGHT HERE!  SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL RIGHT HERE. THIS WEEK'S SPONSOR INFORMATION:   ❤️ Air Doctor : Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code YOURBESTLIFE to receive upto 39% off or upto $300 off! ❤️ Shopify : Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/bestlife ❤️ RoBody: Go to ro.co/REBECCA, and pay just $99 for your first month, then $145 a month after that. ❤️ Quince : Go to Quince.com/negotiate for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Rebecca uncovers the tactics used by narcissists in legal battles—from manipulation to deception—and, most importantly, how you can counteract them. Whether you’re dealing with custody disputes, false accusations, or financial sabotage, I’m here to arm you with actionable legal strategies, tips on gathering evidence, and the emotional resilience to protect your rights. Get ready to break free from the chaos, gain control, and find justice. Let’s take the first step together! ____________________________________________________________________ Check out my FREE Live webinar, the OUTSMART A NARCISSIST A 4-STEP PROVEN PLAN To Take Your Power Back RIGHT HERE Learn more about the SLAY Your Negotiation with Narcissists program right here:  https://slay.rebeccazung.com/slay-it-now-a ___________________________________ _________________________________ For more information on REBECCA ZUNG, ESQ. visit her website www.rebeccazung.com and follow her on Instagram: @rebeccazung and YouTube!  GRAB YOUR FREE CRUSH MY NEGOTIATION PREP WORKSHEET RIGHT HERE!  SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL RIGHT HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Rebecca explores the signs of love bombing, why it’s used, and how you can protect yourself. Whether you're dating someone new or navigating a complicated relationship, it’s essential to know the difference between genuine love and manipulative behavior. So grab a seat, and let’s unpack the truth behind those overwhelming declarations of love.  ____________________________________________________________________ Check out my FREE Live webinar, the OUTSMART A NARCISSIST A 4-STEP PROVEN PLAN To Take Your Power Back RIGHT HERE Learn more about the SLAY Your Negotiation with Narcissists program right here:  https://slay.rebeccazung.com/slay-it-now-a ___________________________________ _________________________________ For more information on REBECCA ZUNG, ESQ. visit her website www.rebeccazung.com and follow her on Instagram: @rebeccazung and YouTube!  GRAB YOUR FREE CRUSH MY NEGOTIATION PREP WORKSHEET RIGHT HERE!  SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL RIGHT HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sam Vaknin ( http://samvak.tripod.com/mediakit.html ) is the author of Malignant Self-love: Narcissism Revisited as well as many other books and ebooks about topics in psychology, relationships, philosophy, economics, international affairs, and award-winning short fiction. He is a Professor of Clinical Psychology and Management Studies in CIAPS (Commonwealth of International Advanced Professional Studies), Cambridge and Birmingham, UK; Ontario, Canada; Lagos, Nigeria; and a former Visiting Professor of Psychology, Southern Federal University, Rostov-on-Don, Russia. He was the Editor-in-Chief of Global Politician and served as a columnist for Central Europe Review, PopMatters, eBookWeb , and Bellaonline, and as a United Press International (UPI) Senior Business Correspondent. He was the editor of mental health and Central East Europe categories in The Open Directory and Suite101. His YouTube channels garnered 100,000,000 views and 450,000 subscribers. Visit Sam's Web site at http://www.narcissistic-abuse.com  Author of Malignant Self Love: Narcissism Revisited  ____________________________________________________________________ Check out my FREE Live webinar, the OUTSMART A NARCISSIST A 4-STEP PROVEN PLAN To Take Your Power Back RIGHT HERE Learn more about the SLAY Your Negotiation with Narcissists program right here:  https://slay.rebeccazung.com/slay-it-now-a ___________________________________ _________________________________ For more information on REBECCA ZUNG, ESQ. visit her website www.rebeccazung.com and follow her on Instagram: @rebeccazung and YouTube!  GRAB YOUR FREE CRUSH MY NEGOTIATION PREP WORKSHEET RIGHT HERE!  SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL RIGHT HERE. THIS WEEK'S SPONSOR INFORMATION:   ❤️ Air Doctor : Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code YOURBESTLIFE to receive upto 39% off or upto $300 off! ❤️ Shopify : Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/bestlife ❤️ RoBody: Go to ro.co/REBECCA, and pay just $99 for your first month, then $145 a month after that. ❤️ Quince : Go to Quince.com/negotiate for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you're navigating a toxic relationship, dealing with a manipulative colleague, or facing challenges with a narcissistic family member, these tricks will arm you with insights to protect your mental well-being and turn the tables on their manipulation. Buckle up— Join Rebecca outsmart the narcissist and take control of your life! ____________________________________________________________________ Check out my FREE Live webinar, the OUTSMART A NARCISSIST A 4-STEP PROVEN PLAN To Take Your Power Back RIGHT HERE Learn more about the SLAY Your Negotiation with Narcissists program right here:  https://slay.rebeccazung.com/slay-it-now-a ___________________________________ _________________________________ For more information on REBECCA ZUNG, ESQ. visit her website www.rebeccazung.com and follow her on Instagram: @rebeccazung and YouTube!  GRAB YOUR FREE CRUSH MY NEGOTIATION PREP WORKSHEET RIGHT HERE!  SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL RIGHT HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You might have heard of the classic, grandiose narcissist, with their loud, self-absorbed demeanor. But what about those who fly under the radar, hiding their narcissism behind a façade of humility or introversion? These covert narcissists can be incredibly tricky to spot, but today we’re going to break it down. Join Rebecca as she explores "21 Ways to Recognize a Covert Narcissist" and uncover how one key trait can reveal a whole web of narcissistic behaviors. From subtle manipulation to passive-aggressive tendencies, She'll help you understand how these hidden traits manifest in everyday interactions. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer picture of what to look for and how to protect yourself from the emotional rollercoaster that comes with dealing with covert narcissists. ____________________________________________________________________ Check out my FREE Live webinar, the OUTSMART A NARCISSIST A 4-STEP PROVEN PLAN To Take Your Power Back RIGHT HERE Learn more about the SLAY Your Negotiation with Narcissists program right here:  https://slay.rebeccazung.com/slay-it-now-a ___________________________________ _________________________________ For more information on REBECCA ZUNG, ESQ. visit her website www.rebeccazung.com and follow her on Instagram: @rebeccazung and YouTube!  GRAB YOUR FREE CRUSH MY NEGOTIATION PREP WORKSHEET RIGHT HERE!  SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL RIGHT HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bill Eddy is Chief Innovation Officer of the High Conflict Institute based in San Diego, California. He trains lawyers, judges, mediators, and therapists throughout the United States and a dozen other countries in managing high-conflict family, workplace and legal disputes. He is the author of over 20 books and manuals and has a popular blog on PsychologyToday.com. Latest Book: Our New World of Adult Bullies: How to Spot Them ― How to Stop Them https://amzn.to/3Z8JLFU Website: https://highconflictinstitute.com/ Instagram: @highconflictinstitute ____________________________________________________________________ Check out my FREE Live webinar, the OUTSMART A NARCISSIST A 4-STEP PROVEN PLAN To Take Your Power Back RIGHT HERE Learn more about the SLAY Your Negotiation with Narcissists program right here:  https://slay.rebeccazung.com/slay-it-now-a ___________________________________ _________________________________ For more information on REBECCA ZUNG, ESQ. visit her website www.rebeccazung.com and follow her on Instagram: @rebeccazung and YouTube!  GRAB YOUR FREE CRUSH MY NEGOTIATION PREP WORKSHEET RIGHT HERE!  SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL RIGHT HERE. THIS WEEK'S SPONSOR INFORMATION:   ❤️ Air Doctor : Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code YOURBESTLIFE to receive upto 39% off or upto $300 off! ❤️ Shopify : Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/bestlife ❤️ RoBody: Go to ro.co/REBECCA, and pay just $99 for your first month, then $145 a month after that. ❤️ Quince : Go to Quince.com/negotiate for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're diving deep into a topic affecting so many families worldwide. If you’re dealing with a partner or ex who manipulates the truth, twists reality, and uses your children as pawns in their emotional games, this episode is for you. Rebecca talks about how to recognize the subtle and not-so-subtle ways narcissists distort reality, how to support your kids in navigating their confusion, and most importantly, how to keep them emotionally and mentally safe. This isn't just about surviving the storm—it's about building your child's resilience, helping them trust their own voice, and showing them the truth in a world of lies. So, get comfortable, because we're getting real about what it takes to protect your family from the toxic behaviors of a narcissistic parent. Let's get started! ____________________________________________________________________ Check out my FREE Live webinar, the OUTSMART A NARCISSIST A 4-STEP PROVEN PLAN To Take Your Power Back RIGHT HERE Learn more about the SLAY Your Negotiation with Narcissists program right here:  https://slay.rebeccazung.com/slay-it-now-a ___________________________________ _________________________________ For more information on REBECCA ZUNG, ESQ. visit her website www.rebeccazung.com and follow her on Instagram: @rebeccazung and YouTube!  GRAB YOUR FREE CRUSH MY NEGOTIATION PREP WORKSHEET RIGHT HERE!  SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL RIGHT HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices